Demarai Gray's late thunderbolt lifted the mood at Everton as Rafael Benitez's side came from behind to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory against Arsenal at Goodison Park on Monday Night Football.
It was looking like it wasn't going to be Everton's night when Richarlison was twice denied goals after being ruled offside by VAR, especially when Martin Odegaard gave the visitors the lead in stoppage time at the end of the first half.
However, the Brazilian wasn't to be denied a third time as he headed home the rebound after Gray's strike had hit the crossbar to bring the scores level.
Arsenal, who will feel aggrieved Ben Godfrey didn't see red after his studs caught Takehiro Tomiyasu in the face in the first half, had a glorious chance of their own to re-take the lead in the final 10 minutes when Eddie Nketiah headed against the post from inside the six-yard box, but it was to be Everton's night when Gray's powerful effort hit the inside of the post and went in to start the Goodison Park celebrations.
The victory sees Everton, who saw a small section of their supporters walk out in protest of the running of the club in the 27th minute, move up to 12th, relieving the pressure that was building on Benitez after an eight-game winless run.
Meanwhile, Arsenal, who stay seventh, lose ground in the race for fourth after wins for West Ham, Tottenham and Manchester United at the weekend.
What's next
Everton travel to Crystal Palace on Sunday December 12 (4.30pm) in a game you can see live on Sky Sports Premier League, while Arsenal host Southampton on Saturday December 11 (3pm)
Line-ups
Everton XI: Coleman, Townsend, Allan, Pickford, Doucoure, Godfrey, Keane, Mina, Gray, Richarlison, Gordon
Subs: A. Begović, Delph, Tosun, Andre Gomes, Gbamin, Iwobi, J.Kenny, Holgate, J. Branthwaite
Arsenal XI: Lacazette, Xhaka, Partey, Tierney, Martin Odegaard, Tomiyasu, Gabriel, Ramsdale, B. White, Martinelli, Saka
Subs: Aubameyang, Cedric, M.Elneny, Pepe, Holding, Nketiah, A. Lokonga, Nuno Tavares, A. Okonkwo
williamsonbestboy
302
Arsenal have Started their giveaway and Promo for Xmas😂😂
STORMDC
152
Arsenal haalanded it in the first half,but unfortunately.....their usually KEPABILITY took over in the second half and they ended up wernering all the three points[Crylaugh][Crylaugh][Crylaugh][Crylaugh][Crylaugh]
Allforyou123
127
Arsenal’s women’s team lost yesterday Arsenal men lose today Arsenal U23’s lose today Arsenal are back 😂🤣🤣🤣
Tiyaenotuz
56
what a wondeful words...
Brightberry
55
Demarai Gray for Everton so far this season in the Premier League ⚽ 5 game 🅰️ 3 Assists He cost €1.7 million.
Zokabcdrs
40
Professor Rafa to arsenal; Let them score in late First 45 mins. Everton players; Ok what next,we let them win? Professor Rafa;No, score in late 70s, by that time arsenal players will be tired and they will be willing to draw the match; Everton players;So what next,we let them draw this match; Professor Rafa: That's where Gray comes in, in late 90s ; arsenal FC will be finished since they will be tired
faeabotuz
28
i always say Arsenal is the best team in England .those who think i'm wrong....you are absolutely right.
Zokabcdrs
22
professor Rafa to arsenal;let them score in late First 45 min and we shall score during late 70s. Everton team;so is that all? Professor Rafa;no arsenal they'll be tired and they will be willing to draw the match. Everton players;So what do we do? Professor Rafa; That's where Gray comes in.
Gunners4ever❤
13
Everton and Arsenal fans will never talk 2-1 another again