Arsenal held by Portsmouth

Arsenal were held by a spirited performance by Portsmouth in Fratton Park. Neither side really took the game by the scruff of the neck, but the Gunners will feel a little disappointed that golden opportunities were missed by William Gallas and Tomas Rosicky.

It was a very boring affair at Fratton Park as Arsenal were held by Portsmouth for 90 minutes. Arsenal's best chances all came in the last 5 minutes as Tomas Rosicky should've scored after good work from Nicklas Bendtner, and William Gallas shot over the bar with the goal at his mercy.

Arsenal started very quietly, giving away a lot of the ball early on. Sol Campbell looked dominant in defence and kept Arsenal at bay throughout.

Benjani on the right flank was a thorn in Gael Clichy's side the whole time, and perhaps should've scored when given a superb opportunity to round Manuel Almunia but his shot drifted too far to the keeper's left and Clichy was there to rescue.

Flamini and Fabregas were non-existent in midfield, whilst their midfield counterparts Bouba Diop and Sulley Muntari were excellent, controlling the midfield and pulling the strings throughout.

Arsenal slip into second place on Boxing Day now behind Man Utd, but there is still plenty of time for the Gunners to move back in front.