The league leaders' mission for payback in recent days has continued. Following dismantling Aston Villa, the turn of Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth who felt the force despite being gifted an early lead through a uncharacteristic Gabriel error.
Gabriel made amends with a goal to level, prior to the returning midfielder marked his comeback by netting a match-winning double to help Mikel Arteta's side extended the gap at the summit to six points.
Mikel Arteta promised his squad would learn from last season's disappointing defeat. Following a lethargic opening 45 minutes, it appeared those lessons were lingering. Yet, a transformed display in the second period, fueled by Rice's marauding presence, secured a fifth consecutive league triumph and sent a stern warning across the Premier League.
Early Setback and Immediate Response
Earlier results meant Arsenal's cushion trimmed to three points. A major boost, however, arrived with Declan Rice passing a late fitness test. Perhaps mindful of a crucial meeting with Liverpool, Arteta rotated, as star wingers and Leandro Trossard starting on the bench.
Bournemouth, sticking with the same team, saw Antoine Semenyo almost create a dream start within seconds. Unexpectedly, the first goal fell to Bournemouth after an errant attempted ball fell kindly to the striker, slotting home with ease.
The manager's ire clear, however his mood changed with the very same defender who delivered the response. Following lively work on the wing, a scramble ensued to Gabriel, who fired in a fierce left-footed finish to make it 1-1.
Midfielder Takes Over to Seize Control
The opening half was far from fluid for Arsenal, with striker Viktor Gyökeres isolated while the Bournemouth forward causing problems. Frustration grew at halftime, as Arteta in a heated discussion with the opposition and heading off down the tunnel.
Whatever was said during the interval worked wonders. Within a minute of the restart, neat interplay involving Gyökeres and Martin Ødegaard presented a chance to Rice, whose powerful drive beat Djordje Petrovic to put Arsenal ahead.
The England star wasn't finished, grabbing his brace minutes later after a brilliant team move between Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard. He marked the goal with a kiss to a pitchside camera, as Arsenal appearing cruising.
A Tense Finish Sees Out the Win
The home side, to their credit, summoned a response. Replacement Kroupi struck an outstanding long-range effort that flew past David Raya creating a frantic finale.
The Cherries pressed for an equalizer until the very end, with their fans incensed as the final whistle was blown midway through one last attack. For Arsenal and their traveling fans, it was the only thing that counted: another vital points in a their championship challenge.
