Arsenal hold on for nervy but vital north London derby win

Gunners survive second-half scare to stay top

In a north London derby day to remember, Arsenal's 3-0 lead after 38 minutes is the second quickest in a Premier League north London derby.

Premier League leaders Arsenal survived a second-half scare at Tottenham to hold on for a 3-2 north London derby win on Saturday.

The Gunners raced into a 3-0 lead after just 38 minutes, with goals from Thomas Partey, Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka.

However, Tottenham hit back in the second half, with goals from Pierre-Emile Højbjerg and Rodrigo Bentancur, to set up a nervy finish.

But Arsenal held on for a vital three points, which keeps them top of the Premier League table.

"It was a great performance, especially in the first half," said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

"We were dominant, we created chances and we scored three great goals. We had a little bit of a wobble in the second half, but we showed great character to come back and win the game."

Tottenham manager Antonio Conte was disappointed with his team's performance, but he praised Arsenal for their quality.

"Arsenal were the better team today," said Conte.

"They were more aggressive, they were more physical, and they were more clinical in front of goal. We have to learn from this experience and improve."

The win takes Arsenal back to the top of the Premier League table, two points clear of Manchester City.

Tottenham remain in third place, four points behind Arsenal.