Van Persie the difference as United beat Arsenal

Manchester United FC overcame Premier League leaders Arsenal FC 1-0 and climbed into fifth place after both Manchester City FC and Tottenham Hotspur FC fell to surprising defeats.

In a game of few chances at Old Trafford, Robin van Perise proved the difference by registering against his former employers for the third consecutive match. Wayne Rooney was the provider, whipping a corner to the front post for the Dutch international to glance in with his head. Rooney had a chance to put the game to bed midway through the second period but dragged a left-footed shot wide. The Gunners' lead at the top now stands at two points.

Earlier in the day, Manchester City succumbed away from home for the fourth time this season, full-back Phil Bardsley steering second-from-bottom Sunderland AFC to a hard-earned 1-0 win. A point above the Citizens in seventh are Tottenham, who lost by the same scoreline against Newcastle United FC at White Hart Lane, Loïc Rémy grabbing the winner on 13 minutes.

Elsewhere, Stoke City FC left it late to rescue a draw 3-3 at Swansea City AFC. The hosts had fought back from a two-goal half-time deficit to lead 3-2 before Charlie Adam scored from the spot with virtually the lack kick of the game.