Ander Herrera's first-time finish has given Manchester United a 1-0 advantage at the midway point of their Premier League match against Arsenal this afternoon.
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The first 10 minutes of the game went by without a meaningful chance as both sides began cautiously and felt each other out.
United were the first to threaten as both Radamel Falcao and Chris Smalling, who was named captain in Wayne Rooney's absence, saw shots deflected away from goal.
Minutes later, Juan Mata had the first shot on target, but his free kick from 20 yards out was tame and straight at Arsenal keeper David Ospina.
The visitors were struggling to create a clear-cut chance, but they were almost gifted two golden opportunities by United defender Phil Jones.
First, the England man lost his footing but managed to just about put Olivier Giroud off, before he was close to passing the ball past onrushing goalkeeper David de Gea to put Giroud through on goal.
The hosts went in front just before the half-hour mark when Ashley Young crossed from the left for Herrera, who had been left all alone at the back post as Marouane Fellaini commanded the attention of two defenders.
It was the first time since New Year's Day that Arsenal had conceded a first-half goal in the Premier League.
United's lead was almost doubled just before the break when Daley Blind found space from a well-rehearsed free-kick routine, but the Dutchman's shot was inadvertently blocked by teammate Smalling.
Arsenal have won their last seven away games in all competitions, but they did not manage a single shot in the opening 45 minutes.
United, meanwhile, have never lost a home Premier League game when leading at half time. You can follow the second period on Sports Mole by clicking here.
Pascal Lemesre
