Arsenal 0-0 Everton: Pickford at his best in stubborn defensive rearguard

Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes hit another hurdle as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Everton at Emirates Stadium.

Jordan Pickford was in fine form between the sticks for the Toffees, who also defended excellently to frustrate their hosts on Saturday.

Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka came closest for the Gunners but were both brilliantly denied by England’s goalkeeper.

Gabriel Martinelli also had two efforts blocked after Abdoulaye Doucoure had gone closest for Everton early on.

And other than a late penalty shout for a tackle by Vitalii Mykolenko on Thomas Partey, which was waved away by the referee and the decision upheld by VAR, Everton were able to keep any late drama to a minimum.

The draw leaves Arsenal in third position, behind Liverpool, who could only draw with Fulham, and Chelsea, while Everton are 15th.

FT! Get in, despite lots of second-half pressure from the home side, Everton stand strong to secure a crucial point in North London. pic.twitter.com/gdCYbzexIO

— Everton (@Everton) December 14, 2024

Data Debrief: Jordan the Pick of the bunch

On a good afternoon for Everton, Pickford – making his 301st Premier League appearance – was the star of the show.

The goalkeeper made five saves overall, including two eye-catchers to deny Odegaard in the first half and Saka early in the second.

It was not just Pickford in resolute form at the back for the Toffees, who stood firm as Arsenal racked up 13 shots and an xG tally of 1.42 compared to the visitors’ 0.17.

Full-backs Ashley Young and Mykolenko won seven tackles between them, while centre-backs James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite combined for 14 clearances (seven each) in a defensive display that will have delighted Sean Dyche.