Roundup of the latest Premier League action which saw the battle to sit top at Christmas intensify, amidst twists in the fight for survival.
Gabriel’s fourth minute header ensured that Arsenal remained top of the table at Christmas for a second consecutive season, as the Gunners battled to a 1-1 draw at second-placed Liverpool after Mohammed Salah curled in a 29th minute equaliser.
Aston Villa sit just behind Liverpool on goal difference as they missed a chance to go top following a 1-1 draw at home to rock bottom Sheffield United, after Cameron Archer put the Blades ahead at his former team only for Nicolo Zaniolo to head in a 97th minute equaliser for Villa.
First half goals from Richarlison and Son Heung-min saw Tottenham beat Everton 2-1 in North London to go fourth, despite Andre Gomes netting a late consolatory goal for the Toffees.
Down in the relegation zone, Burnley remained second bottom with their second away win of the league campaign after a 2-0 victory at Fulham, courtsey of second half strikes from Wilson Odobert and Sander Berge which moved them to within three points of safety.
Luton moved to within two points of safety after Andros Townsend nodded in an emotional 25th minute winner to beat Newcastle at Kenilworth Road, just one week after their match at Bournemouth was abandoned due to Tom Lockyer’s cardiac arrest.
Nottingham Forest remain just above the bottom three after they lost 3-2 to Bournemouth in Nuno Espirito Santo’s first match in charge following Steve Cooper’s sacking, as Dominic Solanke netted a hat-trick for the Cherries.
Elsewhere, quick-fire second half goals from Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus saw West Ham beat Manchester United 2-0 in East London, which Hammers manager – David Moyes described as a “great” result in their final home game of 2023.
Danny Welbeck’s late header rescued Brighton a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace after Jordan Ayew nodded the Eagles in front at half-time.
Goals from Mario Lemina and Matt Doherty saw Wolves beat Chelsea 2-1 at Molineux in the first Xmas Eve match to be played in the top-flight since 1995.
Finally, Manchester City’s clash against Brentford was postponed due to City’s successful participation in the FIFA Club World Cup.
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