Another decisive display from set-pieces helped Arsenal secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea, restoring a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League and reinforcing their reputation as the division’s most effective dead-ball side.

The league leaders were not at their fluent best at Emirates Stadium, but two goals from corner routines once again proved enough. William Saliba opened the scoring after meeting an initial header from Gabriel, before defender Jurrien Timber powered home Declan Rice’s delivery to seal the win.

Arsenal have now scored 16 goals from corners this season, more than any other side and matching the highest tally ever recorded in a single Premier League campaign. This was also the ninth time this season that a goal from a corner has proved decisive in one of their league matches, a new outright record.

While Arsenal sit clear of second-placed Manchester City, albeit having played a game more, questions have resurfaced over their style of play. Former Premier League winner Chris Sutton suggested Arsenal could be remembered as one of the “ugliest” title winners if they go on to lift the trophy, arguing that their overall performance against Chelsea fell short.

Former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira echoed the view that expectations are higher when a team leads both domestically and in Europe, saying supporters want to see more dominance in open play.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta rejected the criticism, insisting adaptability is part of modern football. He said winning by exploiting the small margins, particularly against a side like Chelsea, was “beautiful” in its own way.

Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman also defended Arsenal’s approach, saying it made sense to lean on a proven strength. “If set-pieces are your weapon, you use them,” he said.

Brazilian defender Gabriel has been central to Arsenal’s routines, now directly involved in 25 Premier League goals, the most by an Arsenal centre-back in the competition. The club’s investment in specialist coaching, including the appointment of set-piece coach Nicolas Jover, has been widely credited for the improvement.

With nine league matches remaining, Arsenal remain firmly on course for their first league title since 2004. While debate continues over aesthetics, the Gunners’ efficiency in both penalty areas continues to deliver results, and in a tight title race, Arteta’s side appear content to let effectiveness outweigh style.

With inputs from BBC