Blackburn Rovers 1 Arsenal 2:Theo Walcott's sparkling early-season form continued this afternoon as he scored again as the Gunners took all three points against Blackburn at Ewood Park.
Walcott, who netted a hat-trick in a 6-0 home thrashing of Blackpool last week, looked sharp again and he fired Arsenal ahead with a fine finish after 20 minutes at Ewood Park.
Andrei Arshavin sealed a deserved victory for Arsenal early in the second half after Mame Diouf had levelled for Rovers on his first Premier League start.
Walcott, who was disappointed to miss the World Cup, admitted he is benefiting from a relaxing summer after netting his fourth goal of the new season.
“I’ve had a good think in the summer — I didn’t blame anyone else for not being at the World Cup but didn’t read too much into it because I had a nice break, I’ve not had one for a long time,” he said.
“Now I just want to get playing and show people what I can do...it’s for me to push on and get on the goal sheet a bit more often.”
Gunners goalkeeper Manuel Almunia added: “We have improved our defensive work, I think the team is more strong. The boys did well today, everyone realises how hard the league is and tries to get better every year.”
Victory put Arsenal top of the table on seven points from three games but champions Chelsea can reclaim first place when they host Stoke City later today looking to continue their 100 per cent start to the new season.
Manchester United are at home to West Ham United in an early evening kickoff.