Match Analysis: Sunderland 1-3 Arsenal

Arsenal moved to the top of the Premier League table with a 3-1 win over Sunderland on Saturday at the Stadium of Light.

Olivier Giroud had given the Gunners a half-time lead, before Craig Gardner equalised from the penalty spot early after the break.

However, Aaron Ramsey struck twice to secure the win for Arsenal.

Sports Mole takes an in-depth look at the match to see where it was won and lost.

Match statistics:

Sunderland: Shots 17 On target 2 Possession 32% Corners 6 Fouls 12

Arsenal: Shots 14 On target 6 Possession 68% Corners 7 Fouls 10

Was the result fair?

While Sunderland were much improved after the break, Arsenal did deserve the win. The Gunners were the only team that showed up in the first half and should have been out of sight. The Black Cats did get themselves level and maybe should have been ahead. But on the whole, Arsenal were worthy winners.

Sunderland's performance

A mixed bag for Paolo Di Canio's side. They were awful in the first half and simply could not get the ball. However, they had the perfect start in the second half and really troubled the Gunners. They will feel that they should have been awarded a goal after Jozy Altidore's strike was chalked off with the referee already awarding a foul. There are positives to take away from the match for Sunderland, but equally moments that need addressing.

Arsenal's performance

The first 45 minutes were stunning and the Gunners were deservedly ahead. They should have had the game done and dusted at the break, and missed a number of chances. The Gunners looked a bit shaky once Sunderland got back into the game, but responded brilliantly with their two extra goals. A good day for Arsenal, but there is room for improvement.

Sports Mole's man of the match

Aaron Ramsey: While Mesut Ozil, Mathieu Flamini and Jack Wilshere all had good games, Ramsey won the match for Arsenal. He was brilliant when in possession and chased down the ball when he did not have it. His two goals were excellent and he continues the run of his life.

Biggest Gaffe

This one goes to referee Martin Atkinson for chalking off what Altidore thought was the goal to put Sunderland ahead. Bacary Sagna and Altidore appeared to be pulling each other's shirts on the edge of the box, but Atkinson blew up instead of playing the advantage as the striker then went on to slot the ball past Wojciech Szczesny.

Referee performance

As just touched on, not a great day for Atkinson. On top of that decision, Atkinson awarded Sunderland a soft penalty when it looked as if Adam Johnson had gone down quite easily.

What next?

Sunderland: The Black Cats make the trip to West Bromwich Albion next Saturday.

Arsenal: The Gunners travel to Marseille in the Champions League on Wednesday before hosting Stoke City next Sunday.