Victor Gyokeres scored twice and set up a third as Arsenal cruised to a 3-0 win over Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday, keeping them in top spot.
The Sweden forward who had been criticized severally this season, bagged his 20th and 21st goal of the season, keeping him in good form ahead of the midweek’s crucial Champions League decider against Atletico Madrid.
The Gunners had opened a three-point gap over Manchester City with their win over Newcastle United last weekend and the lead is now up to six points, although Pep Guardiola’s side have two games in hand.
Arsenal continued their pursuit of their first league title in 22 years and took a giant step with a comfortable win over Fulham, whose European hopes suffered a huge dent.
It took only nine minutes for Arsenal to go in front when Bukayo Saka left Raul Jimenez on the turf, before crossing for Gyokeres to tap home.
Riccardo Calafiori had a header ruled out for offside, but Saka was on hand to convert a second after receiving a pass from Gyokeres minutes later.
The lead then became three in stoppage-time as Gyokeres grabbed his second of the game by heading home a cross from Leandro Trossard.
David Raya produced a save to deny Timothy Castagne, before Calafiori hit the crossbar with a header in the second half.
Fulham produced very little in attack as Arsenal sealed an emphatic win that gives them the advantage in the title race.
Attention can now shift to Tuesday’s Champions League decider against Atletico, as the Gunners chase a first UCL final since 2006, when they were defeated by Barcelona in the final.
Meanwhile, Manchester City face Everton on Monday, looking to close the gap on Arsenal at the top of the standings.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
