Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini feels that his side displayed "great character" to hold out to a 2-1 win against Queens Park Rangers at the Emirates Stadium.

Alexis Sanchez fired the Gunners ahead in the first half, but they were reduced to 10 men in the second when Olivier Giroud was given a straight red card for headbutting Nedum Onuoha.

However, Arsene Wenger's men doubled their advantage through Tomas Rosicky, although they were forced to scrap for the three points when Charlie Austin netted from the penalty spot.

Flamini told the club's official website: "It was a great performance, especially when it was difficult after being 10 against 11. We showed great character on the pitch and that was important.

"The team showed great character and we knew we had to defend better after Liverpool. It was a good game for us and now we have to recover because we play again in less than 24 hours."

Arsenal are sixth in the Premier League after 18 matches this season.