Arsenal went to the top of the Premier League with a 3-1 win over Stoke City at the Emirates Stadium this afternoon.
Aaron Ramsey and Geoff Cameron traded goals early on, but the Gunners eventually came out on top thanks to headed efforts from defenders Per Mertesacker and Bacary Sagna.
Below, Sports Mole has looked back over the contest to determine if the result was a fair one, or if the away side can argue that they were deserving of a share of the spoils.
Match statistics:
Arsenal:
Shots 16
On target 8
Possession 52%
Corners 6
Fouls 8
Stoke:
Shots 9
On target 3
Possession 48%
Corners 7
Fouls 15
Was the result fair?
In terms of effort Stoke were more than a match for Arsenal, but the quality was lacking. The home side were dominant for large parts and if they hadn't won this encounter, then it would have been a major shock.
Arsenal's performance
Arsene Wenger's men won this match without every really hitting top gear. Mesut Ozil was heavily involved and also linked well at times with Jack Wilshere. One pleasing aspect for the French manager is bound to be the fact that two of his defenders got among the scorers - highlighting that the North Londoners have goals all around the pitch.
Stoke's performance
The Potters deserves some credit because they came to the Emirates and tried to play football. Granted, their passing often went astray, but at times they were neat and tidy and deserved to draw level in the first half. What will have disappointed Mark Hughes are the three goals that his side conceded - all were easily avoidable and very un-Stoke-like goals to let in.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Mesut Ozil: He was by no means at his fluent best, but the German international, making his home debut, had a big say on the proceedings. His shot created the first goal, while it was his crosses that set up Arsenal's second and third goals. It was the sort of impact that could not be ignored.
Biggest gaffe
Asmir Begovic is usually so reliable, but he was nowhere near at his best today. His most glaring error cost Stoke the first goal when he palmed Ozil's free kick straight at Ramsey, who had a simple opportunity from six yards out.
Referee performance
The biggest compliment that Mike Dean can be paid is that he went unnoticed for most of the match. Stoke are no longer a physical side, which no doubt made his afternoon's work a little easier.
What next?
Arsenal: The Gunners turn their attention to League Cup matters on Wednesday when they make the trip to West Bromwich Albion.
Stoke: On the same night, Stoke travel to League One side Tranmere Rovers.
Liam Apicella
