December 31, (THEWILL) – Arsenal closed off the year with a bang, defeating Brighton and Hove Albion 4-2 at the Amex Stadium on New Year’s Eve for a win that takes them seven points first at the top of the English Premier League, as Manchester City and Newcastle United both drew earlier in the day.
Bukayo Saka got things started early for Arsenal, scoring just 66 seconds into the match. Martin Odegaard added a second goal in the first half, and Eddie Nketiah put the Gunners up three goals at the start of the second half.
Kaoru Mitoma scored for Brighton as the end-to-end game thrilled fans, but Gabriel Martinelli responded with a goal for Arsenal to restore the three-goal lead.
Despite a late rally from Brighton, which saw Mitoma have a goal ruled out, Arsenal held on for the win and extended their winning streak to five games in the top flight. Evan Ferguson scored his first Premier League goal for Brighton in the closing stages, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit.
It meant Mikel Arteta’s side ended the year in style, and they will be hoping to continue their strong form as they look to maintain their lead at the top of the league. On Tuesday, they play host to third-place Newcastle United. Brighton remains in seventh place and will next travel to Everton.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
