Arsenal's bid for a top-four Premier League finish was dealt a blow on Saturday evening as they were beaten 3-1 by Liverpool.
The Gunners arrived at Anfield with a 100% record from their first league fixtures, after 1-0 and 2-1 wins over Newcastle United and Burnley, respectively.
The European Champions provided a much sterner test of Unai Emery's side, however, and their unbeaten start to the season was abruptly ended on Merseyside.
However, it was a much better trip to Anfield than in years gone by.
Although Emery's were comfortably beaten, there were noticeable improvements in their performance compared to previous years.
Prior to Saturday's trip, Arsenal had conceded 23 goals in their last seven clashes with Liverpool, including a number of hammerings on Merseyside.
Those statistics show that Arsenal's recent form offers cause for optimism, despite the understandable disappointment in Saturday's defeat.
In their last 15 league games, dating back to last season, Arsenal have taken 26 points, winning eight, drawing twice and losing five times.
Compared to the rest of the league, that would see them sitting third in the table, level on points with Crystal Palace and Chelsea, in fourth and fifth spot.
With only Manchester City and Liverpool flying high at the top, the table shows that Arsenal's current form will keep that right amongst the challengers for Champions League football.
It's also worth noting that the Gunners' squad is significantly stronger after this summer's transfer window, following the acquisitions of Nicolas Pepe, Kieran Tierney and David Luiz.
So, whilst some may still be licking their wounds following the weekend defeat, all is not doom and gloom at the Emirates.
With Tottenham sitting 15th in that form table, it also underlines the opportunity Arsenal have to claim bragging rights when the pair meet this weekend in the latest North London derby.
