West Ham United vs. Arsenal

Arsenal were initially more incisive in front of goal. After 15 min of the game, Robin van Persie scored in his fourth consecutive league game with a simple finish following an error from Robert Green. While, William Gallas doubled the lead shortly before half time.

Poor defending again contributed as Herita Ilunga was easily out-jumped by Gallas, whose header also eluded Parker on the line.

Arsenal had further chances to finish West Ham, but Cesc Fabregas shot narrowly wide and then Andrei Arshavin forced an excellent save from Green.

This spurred West Ham and they were handed a lifeline when Mannone parried Alessandro Diamanti’s shot into the path of a grateful Cole, who headed a net from six yards out. West Ham were then denied what looked a definite penalty when Gallas tripped Parker as he surged into the penalty area.

Moments later there was another clumsy Arsenal challenge as Alex Song tried to dispossess Cole and, this time, referee Chris Foy was satisfied there had been contact. Mannone had been booked for delaying tactics, Diamanti smashed the ball into the right-hand corner.

Parker was sent off for a second booking following a tackle on Fabregas and the Hammers were reduced to ten men.

Arsenal had one final chance to clinch victory, but Green made up for his earlier error by saving Van Persie’s goal-bound header with his out-stretched leg. Eventually, the Gunners from an initial two goal lead had to walk out of Upton Park with a 2-2 draw.