Arsenal preserved their place on top of the Premier League after William Gallas's late equaliser earned a dramatic 2-2 draw against Manchester United on Saturday.

Gallas's late intervention ensured Arsene Wenger's side stayed ahead of United on goal difference and extended their unbeaten run this season to 18 matches in all competitions.

The most eagerly-anticipated clash of the campaign surpassed expectations after a slow start at the Emirates Stadium. The game exploded into life when United went ahead in first half stoppage-time when Gallas turned Wayne Rooney's shot into his own net.

Arsenal were back on terms two minutes into the second-half as Cesc Fabregas collected Bacary Sagna's cutback to slot into the bottom-corner for his 10th goal of the season.

United regain the lead in the 82nd minute when left-back Patrice Evra burst into the penalty area before cutting a pass back to Ronaldo who swept his shot into the open goal.

The home team were not finished though and they snatched a point in the dying seconds when Gallas scored at the right end by turning in Theo Walcott's scuffed shot.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson admitted his side had only themselves to blame.

"I can't believe it," he said. "We've thrown it away. I thought we had done it but this is football.

"Arsenal had some good possession, but I think we had the better chances. We were controlling the game."

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