http://d.yimg.com/i/ng/sp/p5/20101107/16/3370577398.jpgNewcastle put in a performance full of graft and defensive grit as they frustrated Arsenal to pick up a 1-0 win at the Emirates thanks to Andy Carroll’s first-half header.

Still basking in glory after their demolition of local rivals Sunderland last weekend, the Magpies made it three wins from three and further strengthened manager Chris Hughton’s case for a new contract at St James’ Park.

It was a game of few chances but Tim Krul produced an excellent stop five minutes before the break to keep out a stinging Samir Nasri effort, and it proved to be decisive as shortly after Carroll nodded the visitors in front.

Joey Barton drifted over a central free-kick from deep and Lukasz Fabianski produced yet another error to miss his punch as Carroll leapt well to nod into an empty net in the 45th minute.

Arsenal were lacklustre in attack after half-time and although Theo Walcott hit the bar, they could not break down a stubborn Newcastle defence and Laurent Koscielny was shown a straight red card after a last-man tug on Nile Ranger in the dying minutes.

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