By Our Reporter
Arsenal maintained their 100 per cent start to the Premier League season with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
The champions were made to work for the three points, with goalkeeper David Raya proving crucial before substitute Bruno Guimaraes produced a moment of brilliance to break the deadlock.
Sunderland were awarded a penalty after Ezri Konsa brought down an opponent during a spell of sustained pressure from the hosts. Enzo Le Fee stepped up, but Raya dived low to his left and tipped the effort onto the post.
Arsenal took full advantage just 121 seconds later.
Declan Rice, making his 150th appearance for the club, created the opening for Guimaraes, who unleashed a spectacular 25-yard strike that flew into the top corner.
The Brazilian midfielder, who previously captained Newcastle, celebrated emphatically in front of the Sunderland supporters after enduring a hostile reception from the home crowd.
Guimaraes had been introduced from the bench in the second half, replacing Myles Lewis-Skelly, and his impact immediately justified Arsenal’s £75 million investment.
Sunderland had matched Arsenal for long periods and threatened repeatedly after the interval, with Brian Brobbey causing problems for Konsa and Thomas Meunier and Le Fee also coming close.
Raya, however, remained outstanding. The Spaniard produced another important save to deny Nordi Mukiele and preserve Arsenal’s advantage.
Arsenal thought they had doubled their lead when Jurrien Timber headed in from Martin Odegaard’s cross, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
The visitors eventually sealed victory in stoppage time when Bukayo Saka converted from the penalty spot after Sunderland defender Reinildo Mandava was sent off for a second booking following a foul on the winger.
The result takes Arsenal to 12 points from four matches and keeps them three points clear of Manchester City, who have a game in hand.
For Sunderland, it was a frustrating defeat after a spirited performance against the defending champions.