Two goals from Olivier Giroud proved to be enough for Arsenalas they saw off Newcastle at St. James’ Park.

The Gunners dominated early proceedings and took the lead midway through the first half as Giroud diverted Danny Welbeck’s header past Tim Krul.

The France international doubled his own and Arsenal’s tally four minutes later as he headed in Santi Cazorla’s right-wing cross at the back post.

Newcastle bounced back immediately after the half-time break as Moussa Sissoko slotted home from Remy Cabella’s low cross before Ayoze Perez curled narrowly wide.

John Carver’s side could not find an equaliser, however, with Sissoko going closest with a close-range header that David Ospina saved.