Manchester United lost more ground on the top four, as they lost their eight Premier League game of the season away to Stoke City.
The Potters picking up a 2-1 win at home to the Champions. Charlie Adam gave the home side a 1-0 half time lead, as United lost both Johnny Evans and Phil Jones to injury.
Van Persie equalized soon after the break, but Adam then hit his, and Stoke's second to give them a huge three points.
Everton trailed 1-0 at home to Aston Villa at half time, through Bacuna who scored after 34 minutes.
But Stephen Naismith and an 85th minute free from Kevin Mirallas keep Everton in the hunt for Europe.
Southampton scored three times in the final half hour, to win 3-0 away to Fulham.
Lallana, Lambert and Rodriguez scoring for the Saints.
Hull drew 1-1 at home with Tottneham. Shane Long getting his first goal for the club after 12 minutes.
Paulinho levelling things up after 61 minutes.
Robert Snodgrass put Norwich 1 up after 5 minutes away to Cardiff.
But Bellamy and Kenywane Jones hit a quick double on the 50th and 51st minute to give Cardiff the win.
In the early kick offs, Sunderland picked up a huge 3-0 win away to fierce rivals Newcastle...
Fabio Borini, Adam Johnson, and Jack Colback helping Sunderland pick up their third win in a row over the Magpies.
And West Ham picked up a 2-0 win at home to Swansea in the other early kick off...
Kevin Nolan bagged both goals, but it was a nervy final 20 minutes, as Andy Carroll was sent off for a clash in the air with Chico Flores.
