Everton’s 2-1 victory over Arsenal at Goodison Park on Tuesday night was the Gunners first away defeat in 16 games in all competitions.
Despite the teams contrasting form of late, the game was always going to be a test of Arsenal’s title credentials. Some will claim that refereeing decisions went against the Gunners, but in truth, it was not only poor decisions from referee Mark Clattenburg that cost Arsene Wenger’s side.
They were simply out-fought and lacked the determination to win the game, an accusation that has been thrown at Arsene Wenger’s side in past campaigns. While Wenger moaned about refereeing decisions, the Frenchman maybe should be looking closer to home to find the reasons for his side's defeat.
Arsenal have been mentality weak in previous seasons and it has cost them a real shot at the Premier League title at times. The Gunners have looked slightly stronger in that department this season, having lost just once in the top-flight.
However, the way that Everton got the better of the Gunners with a physical and passionate approach will no doubt be mirrored by Arsenal’s future opponents. Teams have had success in the past against the Gunners by using those sorts of tactics.
Question marks will no doubt now be raised about whether Arsenal are really any stronger mentally this season than other recent campaigns. Every season the Gunners fans believe their team are better equipped to win the Premier League title.
Arsenal fans will be hoping that the Everton defeat was just a blip, rather than the start of a now customary terminal bad run in the race for the title.
The Gunners have the chance to bounce back quickly from the defeat on Merseyside, as they make the trip to top-four rivals Manchester City on Sunday. The clash has now become even more crucial for Arsene Wenger’s team.