3 standout players from Arsenal's battling 2-1 win over Brentford

Arsenal overcame a first-half error thanks to a late Kai Havertz header, as they beat Brentford 2-1 to go top of the Premier League.

While on the surface Arsenal’s 2-1 win at home to Brentford may seem underwhelming compared to recent results, its importance and potential significance cannot be understated.

Arsenal had a positive start to the game, and enjoyed 72% possession in the first half, which gave the Gunners plenty of control in their attempts to carve openings.

One such opening proved fruitful in the 19th minute as Declan Rice headed home from an exquisite cross by Ben White, to put Arsenal ahead in the game.

Unfortunately, despite controlling the rest of the half for the most part, and having several opportunities to double their lead, Arsenal would go into halftime level with their London rivals after a moment of madness from goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

The England international was caught with the ball at his feet and, in his attempt to clear it, saw the ball rebound off of Yoane Wissa and land in the back of the net, gifting the Bees an equaliser just seconds before halftime.

The second half offered much of the same, with Arsenal dominating the ball but proving unable to find a goal to retake the lead, much to the frustration of the Emirates Stadium's crowd.

As the game looked to be petering out to a disappointing end, with what would have been a huge blow to Arsenal's title hopes, Havertz stepped up to make the difference.

The German rose above the waiting Brentford defence to head the ball past Mark Flekken in the 84th minute, after another cross from Ben White, who is now on four assists for the season.

With Mikel Arteta's side securing an invaluable three points, here are three players who stood out in the game.

1. Ben White

This season, White has been one of Arsenal's most consistent performers and an integral part of how the team play under Arteta - especially when you consider his lack of rest due to Takehiro Tomiyasu's injury.

Against Brentford, the 26-year-old registered two assists, doubling his tally for the season so far, and was a near-constant threat offensively, while also providing defensive solidity.

His 89% passing accuracy and chances creation were paramount in the side's eventual win, making him one of the most important, and standout players of the game.

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