Aston Villa stun Arsenal with record 1-0 win to establish themselves as title contenders

Aston Villa pulled off a humongous 1-0 win against Arsenal in front of their home fans, only days after they defeated Manchester City by the same scoreline. Unai Emery haunted his former side with a statement win and has now firmly established his side as genuine title contenders this season. 

The Villans are now in third place, only two points behind league leaders Liverpool, who have 37 points. Emery has guided his side to 15 straight home wins this season in the Premier League, and their performance has been immensely courageous even against top opposition. 

Aston Villa stun Arsenal with 1-0 win at Villa Park 

The Clarets went ahead thanks to their captain, John McGinn, who scored in the seventh minute. Diego Carlos in particular was very impressive, producing two goalline clearances. After keeping Erling Haaland quiet last season, the central defender stepped up to his best once again to deny Arsenal any goals in the game. 

A resolute defensive performance from Aston Villa denied the visitors many clear chances on goal. Emiliano Martinez was also in form against his old side, and was involved in an eye-catching moment, with blood dripping from his eye due to an injury. He still stepped up to Kai Havertz, with the German furious at his last minute goal ruled out. 

Arsenal lost their top spot in the table as a result of the defeat, and will have to find a way to turn things around if they are to challenge for the title. With Manchester City stumbling in their last few games, a race between them, Liverpool and Villa is fully on this season.