The England striker pounced in the 72nd minute, reacting quickest in the six-yard box after his glanced header from Andy Reid's left-wing corner struck the shin of Fraizer Campbell at the far post and rolled back across goal.

Bent was on it in an instant to clip the loose ball high into the net as Sunderland emerged the better from a close encounter which offered plenty of chances for either side.

Arsenal had plenty of opportunities and carved out the clearest openings but John Mensah and Paulo Da Silva were excellent in central defence and, behind them, Marton Fulop excelled - the keeper making one instinctive early stop which helped settle his side.

Despite Sunderland being positive going forward, their final ball too often let them down while Arsenal always looked dangerous and tested Sunderland's defence throughout.

That hardly mattered though as Sunderland's players gave their all from one to eleven and worked their socks off to frustrate their classy opponents.

The final whistle was greeted with a fantastic roar from the buoyant supporters as Sunderland maintained a home form which is fast becoming inspiring.

* Full report and pictures in tonight's Football Echo - the bargain of the weekend at just 50p.