Arsenal moved three points clear at the top of the Premier League after securing a hard-fought 1-0 win over Liverpool, ending their long wait for a league win at Anfield.

Kai Havertz scored the decisive goal in the 16th minute as Mikel Arteta’s side capitalised on Manchester City’s recent defeats to strengthen their position in the title race.

The victory was Arsenal’s first Premier League win away to Liverpool since 2012 and provided a timely response to their shock Carabao Cup defeat to League Two side Fleetwood Town in midweek.

Havertz strikes as Liverpool dominate

Arsenal made the most of their early opportunity when Declan Rice delivered a ball across the face of goal and Havertz arrived at the back post to turn it into the net.

Liverpool responded by putting the visitors under sustained pressure, creating several opportunities to draw level before the interval.

David Raya produced an important intervention to prevent Virgil van Dijk’s flick-on from reaching Alexander Isak, while Liverpool also had two penalty appeals rejected.

Florian Wirtz came closest to scoring for the hosts when his free-kick struck the crossbar, leaving Arsenal with their narrow advantage at half-time.

Liverpool continued to control possession and push forward after the restart, but Arsenal’s defensive organisation limited the opportunities available to the home side.

Arsenal hold firm to secure historic win

Arteta’s introduction of Myles Lewis-Skelly helped Arsenal regain some control in the closing stages.

The visitors nearly doubled their lead when Christos Tzolis connected with a first-time effort towards the far corner, but Alisson produced an excellent one-handed save to keep Liverpool in the contest.

Despite recording 17 attempts, Liverpool managed only one shot on target as Arsenal defended their advantage until the final whistle.

The result moved Arsenal three points clear at the summit, while Liverpool remained fifth, nine points behind the leaders.