Premier League: Talking points from Matchday 3

Spendthrift Arsenal show Spurs how it is done - Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur

Mathieu Flamini may have re-signed for Arsenal for free, but had an immense game in midfield for the Gunners (Getty Images)

The latest North London derby was billed as a contrast between thriftiness and largesse, but it emerged as a game that pitted stability against a new and unpredictable mix. No matter how much money they spend, Spurs yet again failed to beat the Gunners at the Emirates, just like in the previous two seasons, where they came in as favourites.

In the end however, the vision of their gifted ball players – Santi Cazorla and Tomas Rosicky – alongside the energy and drive of the revitalized Aaron Ramsey and the returning Mathieu Flamini set the tone for the game. Further up the pitch, the experience of playing with each other for almost a year now, made all the difference as Theo Walcott and Olivier Giroud combined beautifully to create a brilliant goal which settled the tie. All in all, Arsenal’s Premier League know-how was vital in a game that saw plenty of attacking players who look set to shine brightly as the Premier League campaign rolls on.