Arsenal returned to the summit of the Premier League with a narrow but vital victory over Newcastle at the Emirates Stadium, thanks to a superb first-half strike from Eberechi Eze.
Mikel Arteta’s side, briefly knocked off top spot by Manchester City earlier in the week, responded strongly and took the lead inside nine minutes.
A cleverly worked short corner found Kai Havertz, who laid the ball off for Eze to curl a brilliant effort into the top corner.
Newcastle threatened at times, with chances falling to William Osula, Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali, but they were unable to find a breakthrough.
Eddie Howe turned to his bench in the second half, introducing Yoane Wissa and Harvey Barnes, but it was Wissa who missed the clearest opportunity late on as Arsenal held firm to secure all three points.
The result puts Arsenal three points clear at the top, albeit having played a game more than Manchester City, though injuries to both Havertz and Eze provided a concern on an otherwise positive day.
After consecutive league defeats, Arsenal faced a crucial test - and delivered.
Their early goal, another from a set-piece routine, proved decisive and highlighted their continued threat from corners.
However, Havertz’s early injury disrupted their rhythm, reducing their ability to retain possession in advanced areas - something Arteta will be wary of ahead of upcoming fixtures, including a Champions League semi-final.
Despite that, Arsenal showed resilience and determination, grinding out a result that could prove pivotal in the title race.
For Newcastle, it was another defeat in a difficult run, despite a more encouraging attacking display.
They had warning signs from Arsenal’s short corners but failed to react, allowing Eze to score from a similar setup after an earlier near miss.
While they created chances and showed more willingness to shoot than in recent matches, a lack of clinical finishing once again proved costly.
With nine defeats in their last 12 league games, Newcastle’s struggles continue - leaving Eddie Howe searching for answers as the season enters its final stretch.
