The result put United six points ahead of Chelsea, who play Wigan tomorrow, with Arsenal now surely out of the race a further three points back.
Defender Ferdinand told Sky Sports: "There are more points to be played for, the title is not handed out yet.
"We have not many times been a goal down at home but we came back. We showed pure grit and determination and a great team ethic.
"We were maybe fortunate with the penalty but in the second half we looked more like scoring."
Ferdinand admitted confusion in the United defence contributed to Arsenal's goal as Robin van Persie's cross was allowed to fly right across goal for Adebayor to turn in.
"I heard a shout of 'keeper', but Edwin (van der Sar) said he didn't say it, so I've left it and it's gone in," said the defender. "It was on my head really."
