The league leaders' revenge tour this week has continued. After thrashing Aston Villa, it was Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth who felt the force despite receiving an early lead through a uncharacteristic Gabriel error.
Gabriel atoned with a goal the equalizer, prior to Declan Rice celebrated his comeback by netting a decisive brace as Mikel Arteta's side stretched their advantage in the title race.
Mikel Arteta had vowed his players would learn from last season's disappointing defeat. Following a sloppy first-half, it appeared old habits were lingering. Yet, a transformed display after the interval, inspired by the midfielder's dominance, earned a fifth consecutive three points and sent a stern warning to their rivals.
Early Setback and Immediate Response
Earlier events meant their lead trimmed before kick-off. A major boost, however, arrived with their key midfielder coming through a late fitness test. Perhaps mindful of an upcoming meeting with Liverpool, Arteta rotated, with Bukayo Saka and Trossard starting on the bench.
Bournemouth, unchanged, saw their forward almost create an instant impact immediately. Unexpectedly, the first goal fell to the hosts when a wayward attempted ball fell kindly to the striker, slotting home with ease.
The manager's frustration clear, however it was the very same defender who provided redemption. Following good play from Noni Madueke, the ball broke for the center-back, who lashed home with his weaker foot to make it 1-1.
Midfielder Takes Over and Steer the Game
The opening half was a struggle for the visitors, with their center-forward isolated and Evanilson proving a constant menace. Frustration grew at halftime, with Arteta in a heated discussion with the opposition and heading off down the tunnel.
Whatever was said at halftime had a dramatic effect. Within a minute of the restart, a slick move involving Gyökeres and Martin Ødegaard presented a chance to Rice, whose powerful drive flew past Djordje Petrovic to put Arsenal ahead.
The England star had more to offer, adding a second soon after after a brilliant team move between Saka and Ødegaard. He marked the goal with a kiss to a pitchside camera, with the away side appearing in complete control.
A Tense Finish But Job Done
Bournemouth, refusing to give up, summoned a response. Replacement Eli Junior Kroupi struck a spectacular long-range effort which soared past David Raya to set up a nervous ending.
Bournemouth pushed desperately in the dying moments, with the home supporters furious when the final whistle sounded during a promising attack. However, for their traveling fans, it was the only thing that counted: another vital points in a their championship challenge.
