RVP
It was another great game for Robin van Persie on Saturday. Reuters

Arsenal broke out of a slump in convincing fashion as the Gunners thumped Blackburn Rovers, 7-1, on Saturday at Emirates Stadium

Robin van Persie had a hat trick, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain scored twice, as Arsenal jumped all over the visitors, who played with a man down when Gael Givet received a red card in 43rd minute.

Mikel Arteta and Thierry Henry also added goals, with Henry's coming in stoppage time. The convincing win helps ease pressure off Arsene Wenger who might be on the hot seat after some recent struggles by Arsenal.

Blackburn actually evened the match in the 31st minute, when Morten Gamst Pedersen drilled home an excellent shot off a freekick. But Arsenal stormed back when Chamberlain scored in the 38th minute, and the Gunners never looked back.

Before the match, Arsenal were winless in their last four Premier League matches. The Gunners are looking to close in on a coveted Top Four spot in the Premier League to ensure a spot in the 2012-2013 Champions League.

Arsenal took 19 shots with eight on goal, while Blackburn took five shots with two on goal. The Gunners had possession for 68 percent of the match.

Arsenal play Sunderland next on the road, on Feb. 11, while Blackburn host Queens Park Rangers.

Here are the highlights from the Arsenal - Blackburn match:

Arsenal 7-1 Blackburn by sportsbett