Arsenal 2-1 Brighton result – Special David Raya save denies equaliser after Martin Odegaard nets first goal of season

RAYA HELPS ARSENAL TO CLIMB BACK ON TOP

Goalkeeper David Raya had a key role to play as Arsenal moved back top of the Premier League following a 2-1 win against Brighton.

The Gunners almost saw a commanding two-goal lead evaporate after Diego Gomez pulled a goal back and then Yankuba Minteh was denied by the fingertips of Raya as Mikel Arteta’s side hung on.

Manchester City had moved above Arsenal at the top of the table following their win over Nottingham Forest in the lunchtime kick-off.

However, any nerves were eased when Bukayo Saka provided an assist for Martin Odegaard to rifle home his 14th-minute effort into the bottom corner.

The Gunners were in complete control during the first half and striker Viktor Gyokeres had several chances to double Arsenal’s lead.

However, the hosts were two goals ahead early in the second half when Declan Rice’s curling corner was flicked on at the front post and into his own net by Georginio Rutter.

Brighton failed to test the Arsenal goalkeeper until pulling a goal back when Yasin Ayari’s curling shot hit the post and Gomez gratefully netted the rebound on 64 minutes.

The Seagulls almost stunned the Emirates but substitute Minteh saw his top-corner-bound effort denied by the flying Raya.

Arsenal’s win leaves them two points above Manchester City ahead of a home game against Aston Villa on Tuesday evening.

Image credit: Getty Images