Arsenal restored their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a tense 2-1 victory over Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium, but signs of late-game nerves were impossible to ignore.

Despite Chelsea playing the final 20 minutes with 10 men, Arsenal were forced to cling on, relying on a stoppage-time save from David Raya and a disallowed equaliser to secure all three points.

Match-winner Jurriën Timber admitted the squad felt rising anxiety in the closing stages, particularly after failing to control possession with a numerical advantage.

“You feel it, especially at the end,” Timber said, acknowledging the team stopped playing with composure when they should have pressed their advantage.

The defender described the issue as recurring this season, insisting it is something the squad must confront if they are to maintain their momentum.

Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal remain in contention on four fronts, including a looming Carabao Cup final against Manchester City.

With nine league matches remaining and a long-awaited title in sight, Timber stressed the importance of focus over pressure.

“For now, we recover and look at Brighton,” he said, as Arsenal prepare for the decisive stretch of a campaign that could end a 22-year wait for domestic glory.