Arsenal’s title hopes may have vanished, but yesterday was a matter of pride to play for and restore.

From very early on the game seemed destined to end without a goal. For all that was riding on the game for City and their Champions League hopes, they failed to test our current vulnerability. Or Fabiankski.

Still smarting from recent defeats, we seemed tentative. We again enjoyed control of much of the ball, without ever threatening to score. Despite the return of the much missed Van Persie, we lacked a cutting edge and the desire to penetrate their back four. The familiar sight of passing the ball around their area in the hope of something happening, rather than the having the craft to make it so.

Frustrating. The best thing about the first half was the sunshine.

Alex Song and a slightly improved Diaby hustled Vieira at every opportunity, inspired by the man they aspire to replace. Our former captain had a rather quiet return, playing surprisingly further forward than we ever remembered, but to little effect.

The returning legend was bid a fond farewell as he was substituted early in the second half. Applause and respect rung out as good left the field to be replaced by evil, greed, and howls of disapproval. Such noise levels have never been reached at Ashburton before this condemnation. Although understandable, it is also a little disappointing that those who suddenly found voice to boo the classless bastard cannot do so to support our team on a more regular basis. As for him, thank f*** he didn't score like we dreaded he would. What is he doing to his barnet? If ever you wanted proof the man was a prick, he has now proved it visually with a hairstyle that makes Jason Lee's pineapple ‘do look fashionable.

His most telling contribution was in stealing some limelight from referee 'look at me' Mike Dean. Poor. He leaned against the post in front of the Arsenal fans as Given received treatment for an injured shoulder and shock at having to make a save, as Diaby struck well.

At the other end Sol Campbell was again an example of excellence and leadership. His form while others have floundered around him has surely earned him another year, and Fabianski will have been pleased to have had his help in keeping a clean sheet. City gave the Pole little to do, but he did claim well from a late corner, which was far more difficult to deal with than the clanger he dropped last week.

Van Persie came close from a free kick before the game, and eight additional minutes passed without further incident.

A bore all draw that all but signifies the end of our season, as we take a crumble of comfort in the rot being stopped and the fact he didn't score.

In every respect other than two meaningless games, the season is over.

Summertime. Shorts. Signings?