Dirk Kuyt gave the hosts the lead in the 41st minute when a weak Manuel Almunia palmed clearance fell to him in the area, to score from close range.

Liverpool's slender lead was canceled out when defender Glen Johnson diverted a Samir Nasri cross into his own net ten minutes from the hour mark.

Eight minutes later Andrei Arshavin, who hit four goals in last season's 4-4 draw at Anfield, latched onto a Cesc Fabregas cross and notched the winner with a clinical finish.

Arsenal are now trailing leaders Chelsea by six points, while Liverpool, who have succumbed to six defeats this season, are seventh with 24 points.