In a high-stakes London derby that had fans on the edge of their seats, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on match officials for their "very brave" decision to disallow West Ham's late equalizer, securing a crucial 1-0 victory for the Gunners at the London Stadium.

The drama unfolded when Leandro Trossard netted what proved to be the decisive winner, pushing Arsenal one step closer to Premier League glory. But the real talking point came in the 96th minute when West Ham's Callum Wilson thought he had snatched a point for the hosts.

What followed was a tense VAR review that ultimately chalked off the goal due to a foul by Pablo on goalkeeper David Raya. Arteta, known for his passionate touchline presence, was quick to acknowledge the officials' courage in making such a pivotal call under immense pressure.

"Probably today I have realised how big and how difficult the referee's job is," Arteta admitted post-match. "You're talking about a moment that can decide the history and the course of two massive clubs that are fighting with their lives to achieve their objectives."

The match wasn't without its earlier heroics, with Raya producing a crucial save to deny Mateus Fernandes an opener before Trossard's winner. Arteta highlighted these key moments, noting how captain Martin Odegaard's impact set up the goal that ultimately decided the contest.

"Martin came in and had an incredible impact on the game, an action that leaves Leo in a top position to score the goal," Arteta explained. "There are two moments. One is David's save at 0-0, one against one, and the other in chaotic circumstances when two teams are playing for their lives."

The Arsenal boss made it clear that consistency was key in his praise for the officials. "When I've had to be critical, I have been, and today I have to praise them for at least giving the referee the option to decide," he said. "When you look at the action in that way, I think it is an obvious error, a free-kick, and the goal has to be disallowed. They made a big call in very, very difficult circumstances."

For Arsenal fans, this victory represents more than just three points—it's a statement of intent in a title race that demands perfection in every moment, from the players on the pitch to the officials making the calls.