Arsenal beat Tottenham 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday. But the Gunners’ victory was about much more than bragging rights.

Arsenal made a big statement with this victory. After defeating Manchester United last month, they became the first Premier League side to defeat a member of the ‘big six,’ and they also became the first Premier League side to defeat Tottenham this season.

North London derbies are always big events, but this one was billed as extra special because both teams had started the season so well. Arsenal, on the other hand, were the dominant team on the day, moving four points clear at the top.

A Gunners legend was taken aback by Arsenal’s easy victory over their bitter rivals. Martin Keown said before the game that Arsenal were “behind Tottenham” and that Conte’s team had a great chance of winning silverware this season.

“I think Arsenal are just behind Spurs, but that’s motivation enough to want to get in front of them,” Keown told Mirror Football ahead of the North London Derby.

“I do feel this is the strongest Tottenham squad I’ve seen in years and I think they will be kicking themselves if they don’t win a trophy this year.”

Spurs may yet win silverware this season and finish ahead of Arsenal, but based solely on Saturday’s results, Keown’s assessment of his old club being ‘behind’ Tottenham appears to be incorrect. After eight games, the Gunners lead Spurs by four points and are the team to beat in the Premier League.