Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea: Gunners extend lead as Sanchez struggles and Neto sees red

Arsenal moved five points clear at the top of the Premier League as a Jurrien Timber winner secured a tense 2-1 victory over 10-man Chelsea at Emirates Stadium.

Mikel Arteta’s side have now recorded back-to-back victories since a late comeback against Wolves in February threatened to derail their title charge.

The Gunners took the lead through their customary dominance at set-pieces, with Mamadou Sarr turning the ball into his own net under pressure from Gabriel and William Saliba.

Liam Rosenior’s visitors responded brightly, levelling the contest before the break with a set-piece goal of their own.

Timber strikes decisive blow

Despite Chelsea’s resilience, the hosts restored their advantage in the second half through Timber.

The Dutch defender capitalised on a corner delivery, punishing Robert Sanchez after the goalkeeper misjudged the flight of the ball.

Chelsea’s task became insurmountable when Pedro Neto was dismissed shortly after conceding the second goal.

The Portuguese winger received a second yellow card, marking the Blues’ record-equalling ninth red card of the current Premier League campaign.

Spotlight falls on Sanchez errors

While Neto received his marching orders, significant scrutiny has fallen on the performance of Chelsea’s number one.

The Spanish shot-stopper appeared uncomfortable in possession throughout the evening and was ultimately faulted for the decisive goal.

Supporters expressed frustration regarding the goalkeeper’s decision-making, with the former Brighton man struggling to command his area during key moments.

The result sees the west Londoners drop out of the top five, falling behind Liverpool in the race for Champions League qualification.

Arteta’s men, meanwhile, move a step closer to a first league title in over two decades.