Southampton and Arsenal played to a 1-1 draw in their Premier League match at St Mary's this evening.
© PA Photos
After a bright start to the game, Arsenal struggled to create chances for much of the first half as Southampton's defenders were well organised.
The home side took the lead through Gaston Ramirez, who fired the ball home from the edge of the area in the 33rd minute.
The Saints' lead lasted less than seven minutes, as a Guly do Prado own goal ensured that the sides went in level at half time.
© PA Photos
The Brazilian stretched to clear a ball from Theo Walcott, but turned the ball into his own net to give the Gunners an equaliser.
Walcott put the ball in the back of the net just before the break, but was flagged for offside, denying the England international a goal against his former club.
Do Prado had a chance to make amends for his first-half error after the break with a powerful strike from 20 yards out, but the effort was tipped over by Wojciech Szczesny.
Ramirez found the Arsenal goal for a second time, but the effort was not given after the striker was adjudged to have fouled his marker in the run up to his shot.
Gervinho had a chance to slot home a winner for the visitors, but dragged his effort wide, before Szczesny had to block a Jason Puncheon effort at the other end.
The point moves Southampton out of the relegation zone, while Arsenal remain in fifth.
Sian Cowper
