Arsenal took a commanding step toward its first Premier League title in 22 years on Saturday, defeating Sunderland 3-0 to open a nine-point lead at the top of the table.
While the Gunners dominated in North London, the weekend was defined by historic individual performances and a resurgence for two of England's biggest clubs under new leadership.
Despite overwhelming possession, Mikel Arteta’s side was held scoreless until the 41st minute, when Martin Zubimendi drilled a low strike off the post to break the deadlock.
Viktor Gyokeres, who has faced scrutiny during his debut season, settled nerves in the second half. The Swedish striker scored in the 66th minute before sliding home his second deep in stoppage time. Gyokeres has now scored 13 goals this season, six of them since the turn of the year.
At Molineux, Chelsea’s Cole Palmer etched his name into the record books during a 3-1 victory over last-place Wolves. Palmer netted a first-half hat-trick in just 25 minutes, becoming the first player in Premier League history to record three first-half hat-tricks in a career.
The win is the fourth straight for new Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior, lifting the Blues to fifth place—just one point behind the Champions League spots.
Michael Carrick’s perfect start as Manchester United manager continued with a 2-0 win over 10-man Tottenham at Old Trafford. Spurs captain Cristian Romero was sent off in the 29th minute for a reckless challenge on Casemiro, paving the way for United’s fourth consecutive victory under Carrick.
Bryan Mbeumo opened the scoring from a clever set-piece routine, and Bruno Fernandes sealed the points in the 81st minute. United remains fourth, breathing down the necks of second-place Manchester City.
Relegation Struggle and Other Results West Ham: Secured a vital 2-0 win at Burnley through Crysencio Summerville and Taty Castellanos, moving three points clear of the drop zone.
Everton: Scored twice in the final minutes to stun Fulham 2-1, climbing to eighth.
Aston Villa: Lost ground in the title race with a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth; Brazilian teenager Rayan scored his first English goal to rescue a point for the hosts.
Brentford: Dango Ouattara’s 85th-minute winner secured a 3-2 victory at Newcastle.
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