(Reuters) - The Chicago White Sox drew first blood in a battle between two American League division leaders with a 9-5 victory over the Texas Rangers in Arlington on Friday.

Texas held a 4-1 lead after the first inning but Japanese rookie and All Star pitcher Yu Darvish (11-7) again struggled for consistency, giving up five earned runs and eight hits, as the visitors rallied for a well-earned win.

The victory in the opener of the three-game series lifted the White Sox to 54-45 and solidified their advantage in the American League Central division, while Texas slipped to 58-40 as their American League West lead was reduced to 4 1/2 games.

The White Sox are now also assured of a first season series victory over Texas since 2004.

(Reporting by Ben Everill in Los Angeles; Editing by John O'Brien)