A long distance goal from defender Kyle Walker allowed Tottenham Hotspur to claim all three points and the bragging rights during this afternoon's North London derby against Arsenal at White Hart Lane.

Scott Parker and Gervinho spurned presentable early chances for Spurs and Arsenal respectively, before Rafael van der Vaart put the home side in front.

Former Gunners striker Emmanuel Adebayor was the architect, crossing for the Dutch international who chested the ball down before shooting low past Wojciech Szczesny in the 40th minute.

Arsene Wenger's Arsenal started the second half brightly and levelled up proceedings six minutes after the restart. Makeshift centre-back Alex Song raided down the left hand side, before drilling in a low cross which Aaron Ramsey converted at the near post.

Szczesny then denied Adebayor a goal against his old employers, but the Polish goalkeeper was at fault for the winning goal.

Right full-back Walker collected possession 30 yards from goal and after advancing forward, sent a swerving shot under the hands of a diving Szczesny in the 72nd minute.

The visitors created very little in their quest for a second eqauliser, while up the other end Jermain Defoe saw a chipped effort flash wide of goal.

Spurs are up to sixth in the Premier League table, while Arsenal drop to 15th.