Arsenal moved level on 21 points with Manchester City at the top of the Premier League after beating Everton 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners secured a comfortable home win through goals from Ezri Konsa and Gabriel Magalhaes, taking advantage of City’s earlier defeat at Aston Villa to draw level with the defending champions.

The result strengthened Arsenal’s position in the title race, with the North London side producing a dominant performance against Everton.

Konsa opens scoring for Arsenal

Arsenal took the lead in the seventh minute after sustained early pressure earned them three consecutive corners.

Konsa bundled the ball in at the back post to register his first goal for the club. The strike also marked Arsenal’s first goal from a set-piece this season.

Everton attempted to respond, with James Garner and Tyrique George both testing their luck as the visitors searched for an equaliser. However, goalkeeper David Raya helped Arsenal maintain their advantage.

The home side controlled much of the first half, recording 13 shots and winning 10 corners as they repeatedly threatened Everton’s defence.

Gabriel seals victory after the break

Arsenal continued their attacking approach in the second half and doubled their lead in the 68th minute.

Gabriel Magalhaes rose to meet Ben White’s cross and headed home, joining Konsa on the scoresheet and giving the hosts greater control of the contest.

Everton continued to look for a way back into the match, with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall coming close late on when his flicked header drifted narrowly wide.

However, Arsenal held on to secure the points and move level with Manchester City at the summit.