For a long time it looked as if Arsenal would be frustrated by a resolute Southampton defence, while Petr Cech was the busier goalkeeper in the first half, making good saves to deny Manolo Gabbiadini and Nathan Redmond.
Arsenal went into the game on the back of a 2-0 win over Manchester United and procured the first sight of goal, with Aaron Ramsey firing wide after a foray by Oxlade-Chamberlain.
The Chilean had toiled with his teammates at St Mary's but he elevated a low-key Gunners display just before the hour mark, his quick feet and cool finish breaking the deadlock before substitute Olivier Giroud (82) sealed a win to keep Champions League qualification in sight. We knew that coming here is not easy to play, it's a good team, a team that like to play.
Wenger has, without question, built a talented team at the Emirates, one with attacking threat and flair and, at times this season, new-found durability and fighting spirit which has delivered several late, late goals.
"I'm very pleased because we had a consistent performance from the first to last minute", Wenger added.
"I'm always harsh with the one that doesn't play".
Look for Arsenal to sneak a narrow win. 1-2.
Speaking about his side's effort and inability to secure victory in some winnable games, Wenger said the FA Cup victory over Manchester City gave his side confidence.
Xi calls for boosting China-Pakistan Economic Corridor construction
But the CPEC passes through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and resultantly India has raised objection to the plan. From Nepal, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Krishna Bahadur Mahara will lead the delegation.
In what was a must-win game, Arsenal's players initially failed to rise to the challenge.
Saints boss Claude Puel, however, was left to ponder his side's lack of a cutting edge.
"It's often the same against the big six", said the Frenchman. "We like to upset teams who come here and expect to win".
Midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain had picked up a hamstring injury but Wenger said that the injury was not serious. It's hard to accept.
14 - Alexis Sanchez now has 14 away Premier League goals this season, more than any other player.
Under-fire Wenger has constantly reiterated his side can not put a foot wrong in their remaining games, and they were solid enough to take home victory from the south coast.
Subs not used: Ospina, Gabriel, Iwobi, Walcott.
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