Jesus Helps Arsenal Thrash Palace – London Derdy

Gunners have now extended their unbeaten run in Premier League London derbies to a whole year!

December 21, 2024
8:49 pm

This victory made the Gunners the first team since Chelsea in 2005 to go unbeaten in Premier League London derbies for an entire calendar year. Plus, it brought them just three points behind league leaders Liverpool, at least for now.

The match kicked off at lightning speed, with Jesus finding the net in just six minutes. Bukayo Saka’s cross created chaos in the Palace box, deflecting off Gabriel Magalhães and landing perfectly for Jesus to slot home. But Arsenal’s lead didn’t last long. Just five minutes later, Ismaïla Sarr equalized for Palace, cutting in from the left and curling a beautiful shot past William Saliba and David Raya, thanks to an assist from Tyrick Mitchell.

Arsenal quickly bounced back with another Jesus goal in the 14th minute. Thomas Partey set up the Brazilian, who finished with a powerful shot into the corner. Palace’s defense struggled with Arsenal’s set pieces, almost conceding again from a Gabriel Magalhães header before Kai Havertz made it 3-1. The German midfielder was quick to react after Jesus hit the post, tapping in just before the 38th minute.

Palace had a few chances to get back in the game, with Jean-Philippe Mateta and Sarr testing Raya, but the Arsenal keeper was sharp, especially with a double save just before halftime. Palace’s missed opportunities really hurt them.

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In the second half, Arsenal tightened their grip. After relentless pressure, Gabriel Martinelli scored the fourth goal in the 60th minute, finishing Declan Rice’s low cross after Henderson denied Jesus a hat-trick moments earlier. Late in the game, Rice got on the scoresheet himself, guiding a Riccardo Calafiori assist into the net to wrap up a stellar Arsenal performance.

Even though they conceded a late goal from Sarr, Arsenal’s dominance was clear. They had 62% possession, fired off 18 shots, and created plenty of high-quality chances. This win marks Arsenal’s 13th Premier League victory of the season, keeping them firmly in the title race. For Palace, the defeat exposed their defensive weaknesses and lack of finishing, leaving them with just one home league win all season.

This match also tested Arsenal’s resilience with Saka’s early injury substitution, but Leandro Trossard stepped up nicely. Selhurst Park saw a record crowd of 25,167 for this clash, but the home fans left disappointed as Arsenal showcased their championship credentials.