Reds extend lead as Ekitike shines and Palace make history

LIVERPOOL opened up a five-point English Premier League lead thanks to a Merseyside derby victory over Everton and a 1-1 draw between their title rivals Arsenal and Manchester City.

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HUGO Ekitike celebrates after scoring in Liverpool's 2-1 Merseyside derby victory over Everton at Anfield.

(AFP)

The defending champions’ firepower papered over the cracks of another unconvincing second-half performance as Hugo Ekitike took his chance to start ahead of British transfer record signing Alexander Isak.

Gunners still nearly men for now

Gabriel Martinelli’s stunning finish in stoppage-time saved Arsenal from a second defeat in their opening five games, but failing to beat a fatigued City raised further questions about their ability to usurp Liverpool as champions.

After finishing second for the past three seasons, the Gunners splashed out in the transfer market to add greater depth to their squad. But by stretching their budget across multiple positions, Arsenal were never in the race to rival Liverpool for the signing of Isak.