Arsenal will enter the new year five points adrift of premiership leaders Chelsea after a 1-0 win over Newcastle. (Photo: Xinhua/Reuters)

 
Arsenals Thierry Henry (C) is blocked by Newcastle's Aron Hughes (L) and goalkeeper Shay Given during their Premiereship football match at St James Park in Newcastle, 29 December 2004. (Photo: Xinhua/AFP)

 
Arsenal's Patrick Viera (2nd L) celebrates with Thierry Henry (R) and Robert Pires after scoring against Newcastle during their Premiership football match at St James Park in Newcastle, 29 Dec, 2004. (Photo: Xinhua/AFP)

Arsenal will enter the new year five points adrift of premiership leaders Chelsea after a 1-0 win over Newcastle.

A deflected long-range strike from skipper Patrick Vieira in the first-half stoppage time proved enough to secure three precious points for the champions.

It was an outcome that was harsh on Newcastle, who dominated proceedings for long periods in front of their own supporters and were desperately unlucky not to be awarded a penalty shortly before Vieira's crucial goal.

The Arsenal captain hailed his side's performance as proof that the champions would push Chelsea all the way to the wire in what promises to be a tight three-way title battle following Manchester United's return to form.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who revealed that Vieira had been a doubt for the match after a bout of gastroenteritis, says the win demonstrates the character of his squad.

Editor: Wing