The race for the Champions League spots in the Premier League saw both Arsenal and Everton claim vital victories in yesterday’s games.

Arsenal defeated relegation threatened Norwich 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium.

The visitors took a surprise lead on 56 minutes, as centre-back Michael Turner headed home a Robert Snodgrass free-kick.

Just as it looked as though Arsenal were heading for a surprise defeat, the Gunners scored an equaliser on 85 minutes.

Mikel Arteta scored the equaliser from the penalty spot, after Kei Kamara was adjudged to have pulled Olivier Giroud’s shirt in the penalty area. Arsenal took the lead on 88 minutes, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain crossing for Giroud to score ahead of a challenge from Sebastien Bassong.

Lukas Podolski scored the third from 18 yards in stoppage-time to give the score line a flattering look. The victory moves the Gunners into third place in the Premier League, while the Canaries remain perilously close to the relegation zone.

Sixth-placed Everton defeated struggling QPR 2-0 at Goodison Park. The home side took the lead on 40 minutes. Midfielder Darron Gibson struck a shot that deflected off Clint Hill and beat Julio Cesar in the QPR goal.

Everton doubled their lead on 56 minutes. Sylvain Distin headed a Leighton Baines’ corner down to Victor Anichebe and the big striker fired past Cesar. The second half was mostly Everton pressure with Tim Howard called into action once or twice.

However, in the end it was a comfortable victory for Everton, who move within three points of fourth spot. Meanwhile, QPR remains seven points away from safety.

Aston Villa edged slightly away from the relegation zone with a 1-1 draw at Villa Park with Fulham. Villa took the lead on 55 minutes through a Charles N’Zogbia effort, only for Fabian Delph to put past his own keeper for the Cottagers equaliser in the 66^th minute.

The Villans are just three points outside the relegation zone and the teams below them have a games in-hand.

Other Premier League results:

Reading 0-0 Liverpool

Southampton 1-1 West Ham

Could Everton sneak a top four position this season?