Dire spectacle edges Arse closer to third.

Mancini is a shrewd manager and he knew a point would be enough from Saturday's game so that's what he got.

A midfield trio of Kompany, De Jong and Vieira was never going to flood forward and so it proved as City shut up shop and we found it impossible to create chances.

Van Persie had a couple of efforts from very acute angles and a free kick that only just missed the top corner but our only genuine effort on target came from Diaby who shot from just outside the area with such venom that it broke Shay Given's arm! If only. It actually bounced just in front of the Irish 'keeper who must have landed awkwardly as he dislocated his shoulder after the only save he had been forced to make.

The most memorable moment of the game came when Vieira was replaced by Adebayor early in the second half. Deafening cheers were replaced by frantic hate as the Togo international took centre stage with comical hair.

Adebayor is a plonker. He stood by the crowd at half time when he was warming up, inviting abuse. He warmed up before he came on to the field in front of the fans, lingering for effect to be the perfect pantomime villain. Then, while Given was receiving treatment, he went and stood as close to the Arsenal fans as he could. It was ridiculous and the supporters couldn't resist giving him the abuse he probably deserves.

It was also a relief to see the Arsenal fans' rage over Adebayor contrast with their respect for Vieira and Toure as well as Given when he was stretchered off.

Performance wise, SIlvestre delivered one of his more impressive displays in an Arsenal shirt and looked assured alongside Campbell. Song proved how important he is and van Persie reminded us of his quality as he latched on to nearly every ball that was in his vicinity with the assured touch that so often escapes Bendtner.

There was infinitely more discipline than we saw in the closing minutes in Wigan but hopefully we will be able to regain some clinical play in the final third before another another disappointing campaign draws to a low key close.

Photo: Action Images

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