A Diaby blunder gave Arsenal their first defeat of the season after the champions came from a goal down to win at Old Trafford.

Abou Diaby headed into his own net from a Ryan Giggs’s free kick after Wayne Rooney levelled for United from the spot. Arshavin had broken the deadlock in the first half with a magnificent strike.

After an even first half which saw little chances, Arshavin had the best chance for the visitors when he blazed a shot over Ben Foster’s goal. Before that, United created the early opportunity when Rooney peeled off his marker and found Fletcher unmarked. The Scot chested the ball down but failed to capitalise as he volleyed well over the bar.

The Russian was in sparkling form for Arsenal and almost won a penalty when he was brought down by Fletcher. A clearer penalty you’ll see all season with no contact with the ball and fully clattered the player. But following all the talks about diving, this one will be another one to add to evidence for video technology to be introduced to the game. Arsenal were not going to get any decisions today.

The away side kept pushing for an opener and Denilson found Arshavin minutes after the Russian was brought down in the box. He quickly turned and let fly from all of 30 yards into the top corner. World class!

Ben Foster attempted to push the ball away with two hands but the shpt had to much power for him to handle.

After the break the Gunners came out looking to bury the champions as Arshavin outpaced O’Shea to the by-line and cut back to Van Persie who looked certain to score; but the Dutchman’s shot was somehow wonderfully blocked by Foster.

United became confident and found a way back into the game when Ryan Giggs sent Rooney one-on-one with Almunia. The England striker was brought down by the Arsenal Keeper, the players looked at the referee and Dean’s verdict; Penalty! Rooney picked himself up and tucked the penalty to bring United level.

Diaby picked up the ball and went for a mazy run down the right flank; he was hacked by Rooney and Brown who both saw yellow. Van Persie curled the free kick onto Ben Foster’s crossbar and United cleared. Minutes later, the home side won a free kick in a similar position to their counterpart. This time Giggs whipped in a free kick that looked to be harmless; but Abou Diaby headed into his own net under no pressure from any United player. Incredible!

The game ended in emphatic fashion as substitute Berbatov was wasteful before Nani missed a glorious chance to end the game when he shot wide following a fantastic save by Almunia. Robin Van Persie thought he brought the Gunners level but his effort was ruled out for offside which infuriated Arsene Wenger; who was sent off to the stand.