Arsenal and Manchester United have played out a goalless first half in their Premier League encounter at the Emirates this evening.

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United were the first side to threaten as Robin van Persie forced a save from Wojciech Szczesny in the centre of goal in the second minute of the game.

Olivier Giroud wasted a decent half-chance for the hosts, as he looked to get onto a corner from Santiago Cazorla, but the Frenchman could only head wide of goal.

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Departing United skipper Nemanja Vidic also went close with a header, which was blocked on its way to goal, before Tomas Rosicky forced a good stop from David de Gea at the keeper's bottom corner.

Dutch striker van Persie was in again in the 18th minute as Juan Mata crafted an incisive through-ball, however the United forward lashed his shot wide.

Giroud tried his luck again before half time, this time as he was slipped the ball by Mikel Arteta, but he shot over the United goal, leaving the teams to go into the break level.