Arsenal FC dropped crucial points in the Premier League title race after surrendering a two-goal lead in a 3-3 draw with arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur FC.

The north London derby exploded into life with three goals in the opening 12 minutes at White Hart Lane. Theo Walcott's cool finish was soon cancelled out by Rafael van der Vaart, before Samir Nasri restored the Gunners' advantage. Robin van Persie made it 3-1 five minutes before the break, only for Tom Huddlestone to halve the deficit with a sweetly-struck shot.

With the tempo just as relentless after the restart, Tottenham's comeback was complete when Aaron Lennon was felled by goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny and Van der Vaart kept his composure from the spot. Despite a flurry of late chances the spoils were shared, meaning Tottenham trail fourth-placed Manchester City FC by two points while Arsenal drop to third following victory for Chelsea FC in Wednesday's other match.

The Blues, level on points with Arsenal and six shy of Manchester United FC, comfortably overcame Birmingham City FC 3-1 at Stamford Bridge thanks to goals from Florent Malouda (3, 62) and Salomon Kalou's solo effort (26). Sebastian Larsson replied for the visitors with a penalty.