Starting XI and updates

Arsenal : Mannone, Eboue, Gallas, Vermaelen, Gibbs, Fabregas, Song Billong, Diaby, Walcott, van Persie, Rosicky. Subs: Almunia, Sagna, Ramsey, Silvestre, Wilshere, Arshavin, Traore.

Good to see Theo back on the team sheet. Plenty of ammunition on the bench that can be used later on if neccessary.

A high tempo start with Hart's goal peppered early doors, Rosicky looking sharp and goes close twice.

1-0 RVP with a cracking finish taking the ball in his stride and firing hard and low into the bottom of the net.

2-0 Diaby slots in from a great Rosicky cut back.

2-1 Damn. Mannone fumbles and Bowyer scores, about Birmingham's only effort on goal.

Half time. Mixed emotions, great football but how we are only 2-1 up is a mystery and the way in which we can concede so easily is very much symptomatic of our season thus far.

3-1 Arshavin. Surely that seals it.