Liverpool’s work in progress fizzles out in the face of streetwise champions | Andy Hunter

Arsenal's disciplined performance and streetwise tactics earned them a 1-0 victory at Anfield on Saturday, moving three points clear at the top of the Premier League and ending Liverpool's 14-year wait for a league defeat at the ground.

Kai Havertz's early goal proved decisive as Arsenal, the champions, withstood a period of intense pressure from the hosts to secure a statement win.

Mikel Arteta celebrated his first league victory at Anfield as Arsenal manager, a result that leaves the Gunners as the only unbeaten team in the division.

Liverpool's attacking struggles

Despite a varied forward line featuring the likes of Alexander Isak, Bradley Barcola and the substitutes Lewis Koumas, Victor Muñoz and Rio Ngumoha, Liverpool failed to register a shot on target for the first time in 16 years.

The hosts' inability to create clear chances was epitomised by a frantic final phase where Virgil van Dijk was deployed as a makeshift centre-forward.

Florian Wirtz struck the crossbar during Liverpool's brightest spell, while Alexis Mac Allister squandered a free header from close range.

The frustration was palpable, with Van Dijk later receiving a booking for sarcastically applauding the referee, Andy Madley, and the home crowd venting their anger at the officials.

Youngster Trey Nyoni makes an impression

Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola showed his faith in youth by handing 19-year-old Trey Nyoni his first Premier League start against such formidable opposition.

The midfielder made an immediate impact, leaving Martin Ødegaard in a heap within 49 seconds of the game and impressing with his speed and strength in a 50-50 challenge.

Nyoni's composure on the ball and intelligent reading of the game were the most encouraging aspects of his full league debut.

However, Liverpool's need to chase the game from as early as the 16th minute meant they prioritised attacking aggression over the teenager's defensive protection.

Nyoni was eventually replaced by Dominik Szoboszlai in the 59th minute, a reflection of the circumstances rather than a poor performance.

Arsenal's disciplined display

Arsenal's victory was built on a disciplined and streetwise performance, with Gabriel Magalhães and Declan Rice to the fore in defence and midfield.

The Gunners' tireless work in protecting Havertz's early goal proved decisive, as they absorbed the pressure and limited Liverpool to few clear chances.

Iraola, who had previously dismissed questions about Liverpool's title credentials, acknowledged that his team is still a work in progress.

The Liverpool head coach, who dropped Ryan Gravenberch to the bench, believes that the team's defensive might and penetration will come in time under his management.

For now, the harsh lessons of a difficult night will serve as a valuable learning experience for the squad.