Arsenal's Fan

By Phil McNulty

Arsenal defender Kolo Toure challenges Man City's Emile Mpenza

Cesc Fabregas pierced Manchester City's defence for the first time this season with a late strike to give Arsenal a hard-fought victory.

Sven-Goran Eriksson's side again looked impressive, with Martin Petrov and Emile Mpenza missing glorious chances.

But Arsenal took control, with City keeper Kasper Schmeichel saving Robin van Persie's 65th-minute penalty after Micah Richards fouled Alexander Hleb.