Havertz goal gives Arsenal long-awaited win at Liverpool

Arsenal went three points clear at the top of the Premier League after Kai Havertz scored in a 1-0 win at Liverpool on November 1. It was their first away victory against Liverpool in 14 years, secured despite sustained pressure from the hosts.

Havertz struck in the 16th minute from Declan Rice’s low cross. The defending champions then had to withstand a forceful Liverpool response before seeing out their eighth win in nine league games.

“It’s been such a long time without this feeling here, that we really needed it,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. “We are extremely proud of what the team, the players, everybody has done.”

Early finish brings response Arteta wanted

The result followed Arsenal’s League Cup exit to fourth-tier Fleetwood on Tuesday, after which Arteta criticised his team. Havertz had been among those to miss chances in that match, but finished Rice’s delivery to give Arsenal an early lead at Anfield.

Liverpool responded with a strong spell before half-time. Florian Wirtz curled a free-kick against the bar from a narrow angle, while Alexis Mac Allister headed over when he had a chance to equalise.

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola praised his players’ reaction to falling behind. “I loved the reaction from my players after going 1-0 down,” he said. “I loved a lot of moments of the game.”

Liverpool chances go unanswered

Alexander Isak also failed to connect with a delivery from Bradley Barcola while being pulled back by Jurrien Timber. Iraola argued that Liverpool should have been awarded a penalty, saying: “The Alex one is a clear penalty.”

Arsenal regained some control after the interval as Liverpool tired. At the other end, goalkeeper Alisson Becker kept the hosts in contention with a save from Christos Tzolis, turning away a shot heading towards the bottom corner.

Liverpool could not find an equaliser in the closing stages. Arsenal held on for another clean sheet, leaving Iraola with his second defeat in 14 games since arriving from Bournemouth.

Arsenal strengthen their position

The win puts Arsenal three points ahead of Manchester City, while fifth-placed Liverpool are nine points behind the leaders. It also gives Arteta’s side a significant away result after their midweek cup setback.

Iraola acknowledged Arsenal’s position but pointed to how early it remains in the campaign. “Arsenal are in the best of the situations but it is just the start of November today,” he said.