Comeback kings Arsenal maintain winning run

Arsenal FC closed to within a point of third-placed Tottenham Hotspur FC after securing their fifth successive Premier League victory at the expense of Newcastle United FC.

With the match seemingly destined for a draw, Thomas Vermaelen popped up in the penalty area in added time to rifle in the winner from five metres and earn the Gunners a comeback success for the fourth league match running. 

Arsène Wenger's charges had to come from behind after Hatem Ben Arfa had beaten Wojciech Szczęsny at his near post in the 14th minute. Within 60 seconds Robin van Persie responded with his 26th league goal of the season and the Netherlands international might have added to his tally as the Londoners laid siege to Newcastle's goal after the interval.

Tomáš Rosický and Gervinho also missed from close range before Vermaelen raced forward to boost Arsenal's prospects of finishing above their north London rivals.