Olivier Giroud scored in either half as Arsenal edged past Southampton to move four points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Saints goalkeeper Artur Boruc gifted Arsenal the opening goal, dwelling on a back-pass and allowing Giroud to tap in.
“We really wanted to play the game from the start and really respected this team. We were a bit lucky on the first goal, but I think that really helped us for the rest of the game,” Frenchman, Giroud, said after the game.
Jack Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey had hit the post, while Adam Lallana and Jay Rodriguez went close for the visitors.
Giroud sealed victory for the ‘Gunners’ from the penalty spot after Jose Fonte was penalised for pulling Per Mertesacker’s shirt.
Arsenal forward Theo Walcott returned for Arsene Wenger’s side, coming on for Santi Carzola in the second-half, after spending two months on the sideline while recovering from an abdominal injury.
Other Results:
Newcastle 2-1 Norwich
Hull 0-1 Crystal Palace
Stoke 2-0 Sunderland
Swansea 2-1 Fulham
Everton 3-3 Liverpool
