Bournemouth 2-3 Arsenal: Rice double sends Gunners clear after Gabriel’s uncharacteristic gift
Arsenal came from behind to beat Bournemouth 3-2 on the south coast on Saturday evening, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League to six points.
The result ensured the leaders took full advantage of playing before Manchester City, who have the chance to respond when they are in action on Sunday.
Arsenal’s evening began in the worst possible fashion when Gabriel Magalhaes gifted Bournemouth the opening goal with a careless pass across his own area.
The error allowed Evanilson to intercept and calmly roll the ball into the net, punishing a rare lapse from a usually reliable defender.
The setback unsettled Arsenal and Bournemouth sensed an opportunity, pressing aggressively and asking questions of David Raya in the early stages.
Arsenal responded through Gabriel himself, who made amends by finishing from close range after Gabriel Martinelli’s effort had been blocked.
The equaliser settled the visitors but the contest remained fractious, with heavy challenges and several flashpoints adding to the tension.
Mikel Arteta’s side were far sharper after the interval and began to impose greater control through midfield.
Their turnaround was completed when Declan Rice, returning from injury, swept a low finish past the goalkeeper from the edge of the area following a neat move involving Martin Odegaard.
Rice was at the heart of everything and doubled his tally soon after, arriving late in the box to convert Bukayo Saka’s cutback after the winger had been introduced from the bench.
At that stage Arsenal appeared to be in control, having turned a difficult evening into a commanding position.
Bournemouth refused to fade quietly and were given renewed belief when substitute Eli Junior Kroupi unleashed a fine strike from distance to reduce the deficit.
The closing stages were tense, with the hosts pushing bodies forward and Arsenal forced into a series of clearances to protect their lead.
Despite the pressure, Arsenal held firm to secure a fifth consecutive league win.
The victory moved them six points clear of second-placed Aston Villa, who had briefly cut the gap earlier in the day.
It also placed further pressure on Manchester City, who now need a win in their upcoming fixture to prevent the leaders from pulling further clear.
For Bournemouth, the night ended in frustration after another encouraging performance went unrewarded.
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