Arsenal recorded their seventh consecutive Premier League win after beating Aston Villa 3-0 on Saturday.
A hint of controversy started the match when Arsenal defender Johan Djourou seemingly elbowed Emile Heskey in a challenge, but no decision was forthcoming.
Aston Villa started the match the better and they might have taken the lead after seven minutes when Marc Albrighton advanced on goal, but the winger fired high and wide.
Arsenal were next to go close, however, after good work from Theo Walcott presented Tomas Rosicky with a chance after nine minutes, before Walcott went close himself.
The home side opened the scoring after 16 minutes when Kieran Gibbs darted into the box before finishing in the bottom corner.
The Gunners continued to dominate proceedings in the early stages, with Robin Van Persie pulling the strings against a poor Villa side.
Arsenal moved 2-0 ahead after 25 minutes when Walcott found the bottom corner after good work from Alex Song.
Van Persie and Walcott both came close in the latter stages of the half, with the Gunners extremely comfortable.
Arsenal started the second period much the same as they ended the first, in complete control, and Gervinho came close to a third with a strike just before the 60 minute mark, while Rosicky came close moments later.
Gary Gardner had Villa's best chance of the second period, but he fired wide after 67 minutes when he might have scored.
Mikel Arteta added a late third for Arsenal from long range, to secure another three points.
Arsenal have strengthened their grip on third in the Premier League, while Villa remain 15th.
Matt Law
