Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to seven points after a 4–0 win over Leeds United at Elland Road, ending a run of four league games without a win.
Mikel Arteta's side move seven points clear of title rivals Manchester City and Aston Villa, who are both in action on Sunday, as the Gunners take a significant step forward in the title race.
Reaction to recent failures
The result was a timely response after last weekend's first home defeat of the season to Manchester United, which left Arsenal with just two points from a possible nine in their last three league matches.
Having finished as runners-up for the last three seasons, questions were raised about Arsenal's mentality in the crucial moments of the title challenge.
Arsenal suffered an early blow when Bukayo Saka was injured in training, but his replacement Noni Maduke made an immediate impact in what turned out to be only Leeds' second defeat in 12 matches.
Maduke shines after Saka blow
Madueke delivered a cross from which Martin Zubimendi gave Arsenal the lead, before Leeds goalkeeper Karl Darlow saved another dangerous delivery from the winger into his own net before half-time.
Goals seal comprehensive win
Despite their strong recent form, Leeds are only six points above the relegation zone, and their first home defeat since November was confirmed when Victor Gyökeres, who has faced criticism since his arrival, finished off Gabriel Martinelli's cross for his 11th goal since joining from Sporting Lisbon.
Gabriel Jesus ended the match with a powerful strike four minutes from time.
The title race heats up
Arsenal will now hope to put a halt to Manchester City's title chase by hosting Pep Guardiola's local rivals Tottenham, while Aston Villa welcome Brentford. Chelsea could break into the top four if they continue their strong start under Liam Rosenior against West Ham at Stamford Bridge.
The win moves Arsenal seven points clear at the top as the Premier League title race heads into a decisive weekend.
