MANCHESTER, Sept. 22 -- Liverpool opened up a five-point Premier League lead thanks to Merseyside derby victory over Everton and a 1-1 draw between their title rivals Arsenal and Manchester City.

The defending champions' firepower papered over the cracks of another unconvincing second-half performance as Hugo Ekitike took his chance to start over British transfer record signing Alexander Isak.

AFP Sport looks at the key talking points from the weekend's action:

Arsenal still nearly men for now

Gabriel Martinelli's stunning finish in stoppage-time saved Arsenal from a second defeat in their opening five games, but failing to beat a fatigued City raised further questions about their ability to usurp Liverpool as champions.

After finish...