It's time to reveal the Gunners' Greatest 50 Goals - as voted for by Arsenal's fans.
Arsenal scored a trio of superb goals in this enthralling victory over Manchester United and Patrick Vieira’s is the first to feature in our countdown.
Clashes with Sir Alex Ferguson’s side were usually high-octane affairs and this one was no exception. And, with only one Premier League defeat in their opening 14 games, Arsenal were starting to believe that Arsène Wenger could deliver the Premier League trophy in his first full season at the helm.
Nicolas Anelka got the Gunners off to the perfect start, slamming home his first Arsenal goal after seven minutes and Vieira swooped 20 minutes later causing delirium among the home supporters.
Ray Parlour’s corner was nodded clear by Henning Berg at the front post but only as far as Vieira scampering across the edge of the area.
Without breaking his stride the Frenchman rifled a swirling right-foot strike over Peter Schmeichel and in off the crossbar.
The then 21-year-old celebrated with gusto, finishing a long sprint by sliding on his knees. Incidentally, the manoeuvre caused Vieira an injury that would see him replaced at half-time.
He didn’t feature again until Boxing Day but Arsenal still won the Premier League in May.
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