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.
2021/2022 Premier League
2-1
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