Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini said it was extremely important his side did not lose to Arsenal tonight in the match that ended in a scoreless draw.
Second-placed City were rock-solid in defence to snuff out any chances created by the Gunners, pleasing Mancini who stressed just how vital it was to at least gain a point from the encounter.
"They had good chances in the first 15-20 minutes. After that they had good possession but didn't have more chances to score," he told Sky Sports 2.
"In the second half we played better but I think four games in 10 days is very hard and today we were missing important players.
"We wanted to win but Arsenal played better than us, maybe. We defended very well in the second half. If we came here with all players I think it could have been another game but four games, 10 points in 10 days is good.
"I think it was important not to lose this game."