A first-half Viktor Gyokeres penalty was all that prevented Everton from getting something to show from a gritty display against Premier League leaders Arsenal in the final match of 2025 at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The crucial moment of a closely-fought encounter came on 27 minutes when Jake O'Brien was penalised for handling Declan Rice's corner, allowing Gyokeres to net the winner from the spot.
Other than that, it was an even affair, Arsenal twice hitting the post in the second half but the Toffees putting plenty of pressure on the Gunners without truly testing the meanest defence in England.
Boss David Moyes could still take positives from another display which offered encouragement moving forward, especially with a host of key players missing for his side.
By Everton Football Club
December 21, 2025