Giroud’s spectacular goal highlights Arsenal victory over Crystal Palace (The Associated Press)

Olivier Giroud helped Arsenal start the new year on a positive note with an early highlight-reel goal as the hosts had little trouble handling Crystal Palace in a 2-0 victory Sunday at the Emirates. The Frenchman scored in the 17th minute on a scorpion kick directly off his heel - via a pass from Alexis Sanchez - that is certain to be a "Goal of the Year" candidate in the Premier League. It's the second straight match Giroud has scored for Arsenal (12-4-3), who have won two in a row and sit third in the league table.