Arsenal survived an uncomfortable second half to record a narrow win over Champions League newcomers Montpellier HSC at Stade de la Mosson tonight.
The Gunners, who are competing in the group stage of Europe's premier competition for the 15th consecutive season, fell behind against the run of play on nine minutes.
Younes Belhanda confidently chipped a penalty kick beyond Vito Mannone, after he had been fouled by Thomas Vermaelen on the edge of the area.
Lukas Podolski levelled the scores seven minutes later with a clinical finish from 14 yards, before Gervinho completed the turnaround from close range on 18 minutes.
Arsenal were fully deserving of their half-time lead, however their performance dropped after the break.
Within seconds of the restart, Abou Diaby was dispossessed inside his own penalty area and Remy Cabella spurned a good chance from 10 yards.
Cabella later struck the crossbar, while Garry Bocaly also went close with an audacious long-range volley.
Belhanda had a golden chance to earn a point for his side 10 minutes from time, but the Moroccan winger fired straight at Mannone from just eight yards out.
Robert Summerscales
