LONDON, Dec 27: Arsenal surrendered top spot to Manchester United at the summit of the Premier League as resolute Portsmouth held out for a goalless draw at Fratton Park on Wednesday.

The Gunners never really broke into their normally extravagant stride against a Pompey defence perfectly marshalled by Gunners old boy Sol Campbell and Sylvain Distin.

It was the first time Arsene Wenger’s side have failed to score in 19 Premier League games this season and William Gallas’ late miss apart there was largely little to suggest they would break that deadlock during the 90 minutes.

Arsenal though always present a goal threat and Portsmouth’s failure to convert their period of dominance almost cost them as Tomas Rosicky turned back onto his right-foot on 37 minutes and sent David James sprawling across his goal.—AFP