Premier League: Arsenal 1 Manchester United 0

Arsenal provided yet another twist in the title race as Aaron Ramsey’s goal gave them a dramatic 1-0 win over leaders Manchester United.

The result means that with three games to go United are only three points clear of Chelsea – with a home match to play against Carlo Ancelotti’s side next Sunday.

Even Arsenal, who thought their title dream was over, are now only six points behind top place and can no longer be completely ruled out.

It was certainly a morale-boosting victory for Arsene Wenger’s side, especially as the goal came from Welsh midfielder Ramsey, who was making only his second league start for the Gunners since suffering a broken leg against Stoke in February 2010.

The 20-year-old was only playing because captain Cesc Fabregas injured a thigh in training on Saturday, but he provided the winning goal when he stroked home from a Robin van Persie pass after 56 minutes.

The match was full of controversy, with Nemanja Vidic clearly handling a Theo Walcott cross in the first half – but escaping a penalty and a red card when his indiscretion went unnoticed by the officials.

Referee Chris Foy also turned down strong penalty appeals from United when substitute Michael Owen was kicked by Gael Clichy late on, but in truth the visitors never hit top gear and could not complain about the end result.

Arsenal by contrast dominated for long periods and United were relieved to get to the break on level terms.

Jack Wilshere should have put the home side ahead after only four minutes but rushed his shot when the ball was hastily cleared to him 18 yards out.

Theo Walcott also came agonisingly close to getting on the end of a Gael Clichy shot and Arsenal looked dominant.

They should have had a penalty thanks to Vidic’s handball from a Walcott cross that was missed by referee Chris Foy and his assistant – leaving Robin van Persie furious.

United’s best chances came through Wayne Rooney, who had a shot deflected wide before half-time and a free-kick saved at full stretch by Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny after the break.

But Arsenal’s goal finally came in the 56th minute thanks to Ramsey.

It was van Persie who made it, jinking into the box and laying back a perfect pass for Ramsey to stroke home a right-footed shot, leaving van der Sar well beaten.

United did improve momentarily after that, with Szczesny making a fine save from Nani after the Portuguese winger was put through by Rooney; and they also had that late penalty shout.

But Arsenal were worthy winners and now the title race is set for an even more dramatic finale.