Arsenal keeper Vito Mannone kept the Gunners in contention at Fulham allowing Robin van Persie to gave them a scarcely warranted 1-0 victory. The Italian stopper, who is only third in the pecking order at Arsenal, made a string of fine saves to keep Fulham at bay.
The Cottages battered the visitors defence for much of the game but it was Arsene Wenger's men who came away with the three points.
Early in the second half Cesc Fabregas found van Persie whose instant control and shot proved decisive.
Even six minutes of added time proved insufficient for Fulham to claim a point.
Arsenal are now fifth in the table while Fulham stay 17th.
