Walcott and Ramsey  rejoice after the opener

Two goals in the first half by Theo Walcott and Olivier Giroud  helped Arsenal beat Manchester City at the Emirates, in the battle for the second position on the league table.

Yahaya Toure in the 82nd minute however pegged the hosts victory  to 2-1 with a  sensational sublime chip in the left corner of the net that caught Arsenal keeper napping as the ball rolled into the net.

The victory gave Arsenal 36 points on the table, two behind Leicester, while City drifted six points away from the summit.

The battle for the title will move into Christmas and New Year.

Manuel Pellegrini’s side host Sunderland on Boxing Day before taking on Leicester two days later.  Arsenal go to Southampton on Boxing Day and host AFC Bournemouth on 28 December. On 2 january, Arsenal will also host Newcastle United.