1 of 8
A Garry Flitcroft attack is thwarted by Arsenal defender Philippe Senderos during a cagey opening to the encounter

2 of 8
Robert Pires sprints clear of Blackburn's Paul Dickov as Arsenal look to create the first clear chance of the opening half

3 of 8
Steven Reid wins the physical encounter in midfield against Gilberto as Blackburn manage to frustrate the Gunners

4 of 8
Arsenal break the deadlock as Pires is presented with a simple tap in after excellent work from Kolo Toure down the left

5 of 8
The Frenchman celebrates his strike in the 42nd minute as Arsenal take a precious 1-0 lead into the half-time interval

6 of 8
The Blackburn boss Mark Hughes shows his frustation as his side fail to break through the Arsenal defence

7 of 8
Despite a battling display from Blackburn Arsenal take a decisive 2-0 lead in the 86th minute through Robin van Persie

8 of 8
The substitute celebrates his fine left-foot strike and seals the 3-0 win in the 90th minute with a sublime curling effort