Despite impressing, for the most part, this season, one unflattering trend plagued Arsenal's season. The Gunners have been guilty of being slow starters in almost every game and have been made to pay for it on occasions.
Up until Saturday's clash with Burnley, Arsenal had not entered the break with an advantage in any of their opening 17 games. However, Unai Emery's wait for a first-half lead came to an end in his 18th attempt.
The north London giant hosted Burnley looking to bounce back from back-to-back defeats against Southampton in the league and Tottenham in the Carabao Cup. Everything began well, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang breaking the deadlock in the 14th minute.
The Gabonese forward finished a lovely attack which was made possible by an exquisite pass from Mesut Ozil. Things remained that way until half-time, bringing an end to Arsenal's awful run.
1 - Arsenal are leading a Premier League game at half-time for the very first time this season, last doing so against Huddersfield on the final day of last season. Procrastinate. #ARSBUR pic.twitter.com/0g3K9iTtBF
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) December 22, 2018
Arsenal lead at half-time in a Premier League match for the first time this season.
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) December 22, 2018
It only took them 18 games. pic.twitter.com/4zr2mdXpgn
Three more goals were scored in the second half, as the home side saw off a late fight from the Clarets to earn a 3-1 win. This result means the Emirates Stadium side has moved level on points with Chelsea for the meanwhile, with the Blues yet to play Leicester.