• Norwich 1-2 Arsenal, Premier League

Van Persie bails out Mertesacker in Arsenal victory

Robin van Persie scored Arsenal's goals against Norwich © PA Photos

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Arsenal's excellent run of results continued at Carrow Road in Saturday's lunchtime kick-off, but once again Robin van Persie had to dig his defenders out of trouble as the Dutchman scored twice in a 2-1 victory over Norwich.

Arsene Wenger's side have now won seven of their last eight matches in all competitions, despite a defence that continues to look extremely suspect. Certainly Per Mertesacker failed to cover himself in any glory as he dithered to allow Steve Morison the opening goal, but in two-goal Van Persie Arsenal have the most in-form striker in European football.

Victory temporarily lifts the Gunners level with Tottenham and fourth-place Chelsea on 22 points, with those two clubs to play on Monday and Sunday respectively.

Mertesacker's soft capitulation took place in the 16th minute of a hugely watchable first half, handing the home side a lead to defend after Arsenal had begun brightly. The Germany international chose not to hoof the ball into the stands under pressure from Morison, instead falling to the ground as the powerful striker stole the ball and slotted home.

Van Persie and Gervinho then missed golden chances to equalise, with the latter particularly wasteful with a casual finish when clean through on goal. However, the Canaries couldn't stop Arsenal getting behind the fullbacks, and it was no surprise when Theo Walcott's low cross from the byline was turned home by Van Persie at close range.

Certainly Arsenal looked as dangerous as they have all season when going forward, with Russell Martin twice clearing off the line, while Gervinho once again failed to convert in the second half following a brilliant Van Persie through ball.

Accusations of Wenger's side being a one-man team are ridiculous given the attacking football they play, but certainly only one man seems capable of finding the net on a regular basis, and it was left to Van Persie to win it. Alex Song robbed Martin of the ball on halfway, and then the Cameroon international fed Van Persie, who dinked over John Ruddy with his right foot.

Anthony Pilkington, wasteful recently at Old Trafford, missed a fine chance to equalise for Norwich but Arsenal deserved their victory, even if the defence once again inspired more questions than answers.

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