Everton's mood was raised by Demarai Gray's late thunderbolt as Rafael Benitez's team came from behind to beat Arsenal 2-1 at Goodison Park on Monday Night Football.
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Richarlison was twice denied goals by VAR after being judged offside, the first only seconds before Martin Odegaard gave the visitors the lead in stoppage time at the conclusion of the first half.
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The Brazilian, on the other hand, was not to be denied a third time, as he headed home the rebound after Gray's shot had hit the crossbar.
Arsenal, who will be enraged, After Ben Godfrey's studs caught Takehiro Tomiyasu in the face in the first half, Everton had a glorious chance to retake the lead in the final 10 minutes when Eddie Nketiah headed against the post from inside the six-yard box, but Gray's powerful effort hit the inside of the post and went in to start the home celebrations.
Everton, who saw a tiny number of their fans walk out in protest at the club's management in the 27th minute, now sit in 12th place, alleviating the pressure on Benitez following an eight-game losing streak.
Meanwhile, Arsenal, who remain seventh, lose ground in the hunt for fourth place following weekend victories by West Ham, Tottenham Hotspur, and Manchester United.
Everton manager Rafael Benitez: "It is clear that when the fans, the players, and everyone sticks together, we are stronger. The reaction of the team to the goals that were disallowed and conceding a goal at the end of the first half, we still scored goals and reacted. Every player and fan expects that. Everybody is really pleased, and hopefully it is the right step forward."
"This is the VAR... I'm not sure whether the lines may be thicker. It was working against us. I've claimed several times that we were on the verge of victory. Another case occurred today. Everything is working against you, but the character they demonstrated today may be enjoyed with the support of the supporters. The fans were ecstatic because the players had given their all.
"The fans are looking for dedication. You may speak about mistakes, and we succumbed because we committed errors against a strong squad. The players have shown their devotion, and the fans appreciate it. They want to see a club that has invested a lot of money improve over time. We'll make it happen. We'll take our time, but we'll get there. Everyone now has a ray of hope."