Robin Van Perise delivered a lethal blow to Liverpool's hopes of a fourth place finish as he continues his prolific run of form, firing Arsenal to a 2-1 victory at Anfield. The Arsenal captain scored both goals, with the second deep into injury time, putting the Gunners well in the race for a Champions League spot. The match was teed up nicely to be a thrilling encounter. Liverpool's confidence was at a season long high after their recent success in the Carling Cup,while Arsenal thrashed their London rivals, Tottenham, 5-2 last week.

The visitors had an early chance from Walcott firing a low powerful shot from the right wing, but the England international was denied by Reina. From this point, despite missing their injured captain, Steven Gerrard, Liverpool dominated most of the first half. It was a familiar site for both sets of fans, with the Arsenal defence being as shaky as ever and the home side failing to put away their chances. Stewart downing failed to take advantage of Szczesny being well out of his goal leaving it completely open for the England winger. The London side were struggling to contain Suarez's quick feet and agility, and eventually he claimed a penalty on the 19th minute after he was fouled by the Arsenal goalie. After replays it seemed as though it was a clear dive by the Uruguayan. Dirk Kuyt stepped up to take the penalty, but the Polish keeper pulled off an impressive save, and recovered quickly to deny Kuyt's fluffed rebound attempt too.

Shortly after Liverpool took the lead after Koscielny made a complete mess of clearing Henderson's cross. Liverpool could have gone further ahead with Henderson's shot being saved, and Suarez rattling the post with the rebound. As if from no where though Arsenal managed to pull one back after Sagna sent a pin-point long range cross into the box, for Van Persie to head home. Just before the break the home side were denied by the post once again after Kuyt met Charlie Adam's cross with a clever flick.

There was a long halt in play after half time. Arteta suffered a severe concussion and jaw injury after an off the ball collision with Henderson. The rest of the game Arsenal were creating more chances, with Reina making a reaction save to deny Walcott's close range deflected shot. Liverpool however had the best chance with Martin Kelly squandering a brilliant opportunity from a Kuyt cross a few yards from goal.

With the ninth minute of added time nearly over it seemed a draw was imminent, but with nearly no time left Alex Song sent a lobbed through ball to Van Persie in the box, which the Dutchman fired home on the volley, sending the ball flying past Reina at his near post.

This was Liverpool's first home defeat in all competitions and leaves them 10 points adrift from fourth spot. Van Persie has now scored 25 league goals in 25 games. Every Arsenal fan is just thinking the same thing every game, “ Wenger must do whatever it takes to keep him”, and in the short term, “don't get injured!”.

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About the author
Ed Jones
Ed is a UK based journalist. He has produced and co-presented the breakfast show on BFBS Radio and has TV and Radio presented for Forge media. An Arsenal FC supporter, and keen follower of all world Football.