Arsenal have beaten Southampton with two goals from striker Olivier Giroud.

The Saints showed their intention from the first kick of the game, closing down Arsenal and restricting their time in possession.

James Ward-Prowse also sent in an early dangerous cross that was headed clear by Laurent Koscielny.

Despite Southampton containing the Gunners in the early stages, Jack Wilshere was close to giving the home side the lead when his chip over Artur Boruc came back off the post and into the goalkeeper's arms.

The Gunners began to impose their game on their opponents and again hit the post in the 19th minute.

Mesut Ozil sent in a cross from the right and found Aaron Ramsey, who volleyed against the outside of the post.

However, the home fans were soon celebrating the opening goal of the afternoon. Boruc received the ball from Nathaniel Clyne, and despite having time to deal with it, he tried to take on Giroud. The French striker stole the ball and rolled it into an empty net.

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The Saints came close to grabbing an equaliser with their first shot on target. Adam Lallana connected well with a dipping volley that Wojciech Szczesny had to tip over the bar.

They came even closer 10 minutes later. A one-two between Ward-Prowse and Jay Rodriguez ended with the latter volleying at goal. Szczesny got down low and parried the ball away.

After emerging for the second half, Rickie Lambert lofted the ball over the top to Morgan Schneiderlin. The midfielder then flicked the ball to Lallana, who smacked in a shot from 18 yards out that Szczesny was able to hold.

The Gunners struggled to create much in the way of chances, with the Saints doing a good job of containing their midfield.

Ozil did his best to change that when he cut inside and opened up space for his shot. The German playmaker managed to get plenty of power behind it, but Boruc was able to save.

Despite Southampton's impressive passing and movement, Arsenal wrapped up victory when Jose Fonte pulled back Per Mertesacker in the box and the referee awarded a penalty. Giroud stepped up and scored his second of the afternoon.