GUNNING FOR GLORY

Arteta stars turn up the title heat

- JOHN CROSS

FINALLY, we have got a title race on our hands. Arsenal stepped up amid the din, hurly-burly and intensity of a North London derby to move within four points of leaders Liverpool.

Mikel Arteta's men have played a game more than Arne Slot's title favourites but at last Arsenal appear to be ready to at least apply some pressure.

They overcame Tottenham to complete the double over their neighbours as they enjoyed a run of three consecutive top-flight derby wins for the first time in 25 years.

It was more of a war of attrition than free-flowing football, but Arsenal had to dig deep not just to turn the game around after going behind but also to hold on amid weary legs at the end. Boss Arteta had seen Arsenal lose back-to-back home games in the Carabao Cup to Newcastle and Manchester United in the FA Cup, which only served to heighten the nerves and tension.

But this was the response he needed and Tottenham surrendered, while Arteta and his players celebrated at the final whistle.