Premiership: Arsenal closes gap on Man Utd

A wonder goal from Robert Pires and a superb penalty save by David Seaman enabled Arsenal to keep the heat on leaders Manchester United and maintain their unbeaten away record in the Premiership.

Pires produced another goal out of the top drawer to double the Gunners lead after Seaman had saved Gareth Barry's spot-kick. The home side staged a late rally and reduced the arrears through substitute Dion Dublin but Arsenal held on to cut the Red Devils lead to one point, and they have a crucial game in hand.

Arsenal had dominated the opening 45 minutes without firing on all cylinders and the home side struggled to cope with the power of Patrick Vieira and the skill of Dennis Bergkamp and Robert Pires.

After the break the contest was more evenly matched despite Seaman's penalty save and Pires' wonder goal. Villa refused to buckle and Dublin brought a threat in the air that had not ben evident in the first half.

Arsenal were into their stride from the first whistle and the impressive Bergkamp sent Pires through on goal after a decisive touch, but the Frenchman was denied by a superb tackle from Villa full-back Delaney just as he prepared to shoot at the expense of a corner.