Arsenal took a massive step forward in their quest for a first title since 2004 as they held on to beat Manchester City 2-1 at the Emirates.
An even opening half hour that was intriguing rather than entertaining came to life when Theo Walcott curled a sumptuous strike past Joe Hart after Bacary Sagna had given him space to shoot.
Another lapse put Arsenal two ahead on the stroke of half-time after Eliaquim Mangala gave the ball away. Ozil registered his second assist of the game as he laid in Giroud to strike low.
The hosts controlled proceedings for most of the second period; Manuel Pellegrini’s side looking weary and worryingly light on ideas.
A shot from Yaya Toure that cannoned in off the upright suddenly revitalized City’s chances, but Arsenal were not to be denied as they camped in their area to hold off their opponent’s attacks.
Arsene Wenger’s side now sit four points clear of City and look well set for a title challenge in the months to come.
But who will come out on top? Scroll through our gallery at the top of the page to find out.
THE TEAMS:
Arsenal starting XI: Cech, Bellerin, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal, Flamini, Ramsey, Walcott, Ozil, Campbell, Giroud
Substitutes: Gibbs, Gabriel, Ospina, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Chambers, Iwobi, Reine-Adelaide.
Manchester City starting XI: Hart, Sagna, Otamendi, Mangala, Kolarov, Fernandinho, Toure, Delph, De Bruyne, Silva, Aguero
Substitutes: Caballero, Demichelis, Clichy, Navas, Sterling, Iheanacho, Bony
