Tensions were running high in Arsenal’s match away to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, as you’d expect in a north London derby.
On top of the historic rivalry between the two clubs and the fact both were desperate for a win to get their respective seasons on the right track, seven first-half yellow cards ensured things got a bit spicy.
So perhaps it should be no surprise there was a bit of a release from Arsenal’s side when Gabriel Magalhaes slammed home a header from a Bukayo Saka corner in the 64th minute.
The goal was made possible by some clever maneuvering in the penalty area, most notably from Ben White, who took up a position to make it more difficult for Guglielmo Vicario to come and claim the cross.
As a result, Vicario was helpless to stop Gabriel’s powerful header from making it 1-0.
White certainly seemed to enjoy the goal, turning to his marker James Maddison to celebrate in front of him.
Gabriel opens the scoring in the derby for Arsenal! 💥 pic.twitter.com/AHd09uxOUW
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 15, 2024
Whilst Ange Postecoglou has been on record as saying that Tottenham Hotspur don’t need a set-piece coach, Arsenal have embraced the role. As a result, the Gunners have three corner goals in two games against Spurs.
Theo Walcott highlighted that focus on Match of the Day, saying: “Arsenal have worked on this day in, day out. That’s the difference in the set-up now, when you have someone who works religiously on set-pieces.”
It’s hard work that White clearly wanted to take a moment to enjoy.