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Premier League

Aug 16, 2014 at 5.30pm UK

Arsenal
2-1
Crystal Palace

Koscielny (46'), Ramsey (91')

FT(HT: 0-1)

Hangeland (35')

Half-Time Report: Laurent Koscielny cancels out Brede Hangeland opener

By Shane Callaghan, Reporter | 16 August 2014

Laurent Koscielny heads a stoppage-time equaliser as Arsenal and Crystal Palace head into the break at the Emirates Stadium level at 1-1.

Laurent Koscielny headed a stoppage-time equaliser as Arsenal and Crystal Palace entered half-time at the Emirates Stadium at 1-1.

Crystal Palace players surround 'Big' Brede Hangeland after he scores their opener against Arsenal on August 16, 2014 © Getty Images

The Gunners, searching for a first opening-day win since 2009, went behind on 35 minutes courtesy of Brede Hangeland's goal.

However, Arsene Wenger's side responded well and restored parity in timely fashion through Koscielny's firm header moments before the half-time whistle.

Tony Pulis's resignation dominated the build-up to the encounter, but the Eagles produced a disciplined first-half performance under Keith Millen and made the Gunners work hard for an opening.

It took the best part of half-an-hour for Wenger's men to get a glimpse at goal, as Jack Wilshere's left-footed effort was tipped past the post by Julian Speroni.

The hosts struggled to build on that opportunity and Millen's side went ahead with 10 minutes remaining in the half, as Hangeland rose highest to plant a header past Wojciech Szczesny.

Laurent Koscielny scores the equaliser for Arsenal against Crystal Palace on August 16, 2014 © AFP

Falling behind sparked Arsenal into life as Santi Cazorla flashed a deflected effort wide, before Koscielny headed an Alexis Sanchez free kick past Speroni on 46 minutes.