Arsenal struck the woodwork on two occasions during the opening 45 minutes of their London derby encounter with Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium this afternoon.

First to go close in the 13th minute was Arsenal skipper Robin van Persie, who saw his volleyed effort from just three yards out strike the foot of the post after a cross from Theo Walcott.

Chelsea's response was muted, with only long-range shots from Florent Malouda and Gary Cahill accounting for their efforts on goal.

With three minutes of the half remaining, centre-back Laurent Koscielny turned a lofted pass from Van Persie against the Chelsea crossbar.

Up the other end, Chelsea skipper John Terry headed wide despite being unmarked inside the six-yard box.

As the half drew to a close, Van Persie forced Petr Cech into a parried save from close range.

A victory for Arsene Wenger's Gunners will all but seal third spot for the club.

You can follow the second 45 minutes with Sports Mole's live commentary.