In a thrilling Premier League encounter at Vitality Stadium, Arsenal overcame Bournemouth 3-2 to establish a commanding six-point lead at the league's summit, powered by Declan Rice's second-half double.
Dramatic Turnaround Secures Vital Points
The match began disastrously for the Gunners when Gabriel Magalhaes gifted Bournemouth an opener in the 10th minute, his errant pass allowing Evanilson to slot into an empty net. The Brazilian defender redeemed himself six minutes later, firing home after Noni Madueke's dangerous run.
"Until the last minute I asked him, 'how are you feeling?' He said, 'I'm in.' And he showed that he was big time in," manager Mikel Arteta revealed about Rice's crucial contribution despite knee concerns.
Midfield Maestro Seals the Deal
Rice broke the deadlock in the 54th minute, finishing clinically from Martin Ødegaard's precise pass. The England international struck again 17 minutes later, converting Bukayo Saka's cross after coming on as a substitute.
Bournemouth's Junior Kroupi set up a tense finale with a spectacular 76th-minute curler, but Arsenal held firm despite late controversy when referee Chris Kavanagh blew full-time during a promising Cherries attack.
Key Performances
- Arsenal: Rice (9/10), Ødegaard (8/10), Madueke (7/10)
- Bournemouth: Evanilson (7/10), Kluivert (7/10), Kroupi (7/10)
League Implications
The victory extends Arsenal's unbeaten run while Bournemouth's winless streak stretches to 11 matches. Manchester City could reduce the gap to four points with a victory against Chelsea on Sunday.
Arteta praised his team's resilience: "What Gabi did after his mistake, and Declan's performance despite injury concerns - these were big messages about our character."
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