Arsenal recorded their first Premier League win of the season on Saturday with a 3-1 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Olivier Giroud opened the scoring for the Gunners before two goals from Lukas Podolski sealed the victory.

Darren Bent grabbed a consolation goal for the hosts, but it was not enough to stop them from slipping to a first defeat of the campaign.

Here, Sports Mole takes a closer look at the action.

Match statistics:

Fulham:
Shots 16
On target 7
Possession 48%
Corners 1
Fouls 10

Arsenal:
Shots 18
On target 7
Possession 52%
Corners 8
Fouls 8

Was the result fair?

Both sides showed plenty of attacking intent, which made for an entertaining match, but it was Arsenal's clinical finishing in front of goal and determination in midfield that saw them earn a deserved win.

Fulham's performance

Despite what the scoreline might suggest, Martin Jol's side certainly made a go of it against their local rivals. They looked dangerous going forward and created plenty of chances in front of goal, but some poor finishing and decision-making in the final third ultimately cost them.

Arsenal's performance

The Gunners built on their display against Fenerbahce in midweek with a sound all-round showing. Defensively, they looked more than capable against a tricky Fulham attack, while there was plenty of fluid passing to complement their hustling tendencies in midfield. Up front, there was no shortage of danger provided by Theo Walcott, Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud.

Sports Mole's man of the match

Aaron Ramsey: The Welsh midfielder earned lots of plaudits for his performance against Fenerbahce, and he was at it again against Fulham thanks to a tireless display from box to box. He was there when his teammates needed him in defence but was also integral to many of the Gunners' attacks, looking more and more like he is capable of fulfilling his potential.

Biggest gaffe

On a typically-frustrating afternoon for Adel Taarabt, the Moroccan baffled all of his teammates when he smashed a free kick in a good position out wide well over everyone's heads and out for a goal kick.

Referee performance

Howard Webb was not afraid to brandish his cards in what was a surprisingly feisty encounter between the sides. However, the man in black enjoyed a solid afternoon in the middle.

What next?

Fulham: The Cottagers will look to get back on track on Tuesday when they travel to Burton Albion in round two of the Capital One Cup.

Arsenal: The Gunners can book their place in the Champions League group stage on Tuesday as they welcome Fenerbahce to the Emirates Stadium with a comfortable 3-0 first-leg lead in the playoff tie.