Laurent Koscielny headed a stoppage-time equaliser as Arsenal and Crystal Palace entered half-time at the Emirates Stadium at 1-1.
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The Gunners, searching for a first opening-day win since 2009, went behind on 35 minutes courtesy of Brede Hangeland's goal.
However, Arsene Wenger's side responded well and restored parity in timely fashion through Koscielny's firm header moments before the half-time whistle.
Tony Pulis's resignation dominated the build-up to the encounter, but the Eagles produced a disciplined first-half performance under Keith Millen and made the Gunners work hard for an opening.
It took the best part of half-an-hour for Wenger's men to get a glimpse at goal, as Jack Wilshere's left-footed effort was tipped past the post by Julian Speroni.
The hosts struggled to build on that opportunity and Millen's side went ahead with 10 minutes remaining in the half, as Hangeland rose highest to plant a header past Wojciech Szczesny.
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Falling behind sparked Arsenal into life as Santi Cazorla flashed a deflected effort wide, before Koscielny headed an Alexis Sanchez free kick past Speroni on 46 minutes.
