Arsenal 3-1 Tottenham Hotspur: Hits and flops as Gunners claim bragging rights in North London Derby | Premier League 2021-22

Arsenal’s resurgence continues to gather momentum as the Gunners defeated local rivals Tottenham Hotspur 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. Victory in the North London Derby also sees Arsenal leapfrog Spurs in the Premier League table for the first time this season.

The first half showcased two completely contrasting performances, resulting in the hosts going three goals to the good with barely half an hour played. Arsenal were innovative in their build-up and ruthless in front of goal, leaving Spurs shell-shocked and entirely bereft of ideas. Emile Smith Rowe, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bukayo Saka scored within 22 minutes of each other to send the delighted home fans to dreamland.

Having knocked the wind out of Spurs in the first half, Arsenal seemed to take their foot off the gas in the second. As such, the second half served up a more even contest, with Son Heung-Min pulling a goal back for the visitors in the 79th minute. But that was as close as Spurs got to making a comeback into the game as Arsenal held firm to secure the win.

On that note, here are the hits and flops from a thoroughly entertaining game.

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#1 Hit: Bukayo Saka

Saka claimed a goal and an assist in a dazzling attacking display

While all of Arsenal’s attackers looked virtually unplayable on the night, Saka was perhaps the pick of the bunch. The youngster showcased delightful trickery as well as a calm mind to dazzle a sub-par Spurs defense and wow the watching fans.

From the quick footwork that set up Arsenal’s opener to the excellent tenacity that saw him score their third, Saka’s performance had the lot. He was a real handful for Sergio Reguilon from start to finish, with the Spurs left-back struggling to contain the Arsenal winger.

#2 Flop: Harry Kane

Another disappointing outing in front of goal for Spurs' star striker Harry Kane

The wait for his first league goal of the season goes on for Kane, who endured yet another frustrating outing. Largely starved of service, Kane was restricted to speculative long-range efforts as the Arsenal defense succeeded in keeping him quiet.

Chances that would normally fly into the net for Kane went wide or were blocked, further highlighting his struggles in front of goal. As such, Nuno Espirito Santo will be hoping that his star striker finds his shooting boots sooner rather than later.

#3 Hit: Emile Smith Rowe

Smith Rowe scored the first and set up the second in an impressive performance

Starting from the left but covering the width of the pitch, Smith Rowe was one of several Arsenal youngsters that really impressed. Not only did he start the scoring with a well-taken finish, but Smith Rowe also set up Aubameyang for the second.

Like Saka on the opposite flank, Smith Rowe was heavily involved in most of Arsenal’s attacking play. However, he even found time to further endear himself to the Arsenal faithful by tracking back faithfully and contributing in defense as well.

#4 Flop: Japhet Tanganga

Tanganga was subbed off at half time after a tough first 45 minutes

Despite having filled in admirably at right-back in the past, Tanganga did not cover himself in glory on this occasion. As was the case with the entire Spurs backline, the young defender simply did not have an answer for Arsenal’s front three.

Tanganga’s great desire to contribute offensively caused him to leave too much space behind him, which the hosts exploited to the fullest. This was especially evident in the Gunners’ second goal, with the Spurs right-back nowhere to be seen during a swift counter-attack.

Tanganga was one of two Spurs players eventually sacrificed at half-time as they looked to find a way back into the game.

#5 Hit: Takehiro Tomiyasu

Tomiyasu shone at right-back for Arsenal

While Arsenal’s attackers hogged the spotlight, new signing Tomiyasu quietly impressed at the back. Tough in the tackle and always willing to burst forward, the versatile defender flew up and down the right flank throughout the game.

Right-back has been something of a problem area for Arsenal in recent times, so Tomiyasu’s performances would be hugely encouraging for Mikel Arteta’s side.