Arsenal's revenge tour in recent days marched on. Following thrashing Aston Villa, the turn of Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth to feel the force despite being gifted an early lead through a uncharacteristic Gabriel Magalhães error.
The Brazilian defender made amends with a goal to level, before the returning midfielder celebrated a return from injury by netting a match-winning double as Arsenal stretched the gap at the summit in the title race.
The Arsenal manager had vowed his players would learn from previous disappointing defeat. Following a lethargic first-half, the signs suggested those lessons were lingering. Yet, a much sharper display in the second period, fueled by Rice's marauding presence, secured a fifth consecutive three points propelling a stern warning to their rivals.
Early Setback Met With Quick Reply
Earlier events meant Arsenal's cushion cut to three points. A major boost, however, arrived with their key midfielder coming through a last-minute assessment. Perhaps mindful of a crucial meeting with Liverpool, Arteta rotated, with star wingers and Trossard among the substitutes.
The Cherries, sticking with the same team, watched their forward almost create a dream start immediately. Against the run of play, the first goal fell to the hosts after an errant attempted ball fell kindly to the striker, slotting home with ease.
Mikel Arteta's ire was palpable, however it was the culprit who delivered the response. Following good play from Noni Madueke, the ball broke to Gabriel, who lashed home a fierce left-footed finish to make it 1-1.
Midfielder Takes Over and Steer the Game
The opening half remained far from fluid for Arsenal, as their center-forward isolated and Evanilson proving a constant menace. Frustration grew before the break, with the Arsenal bench in a heated discussion against the opposition and heading off down the tunnel.
Whatever was said during the interval had a dramatic effect. Almost instantly after the break, a slick move through the midfield set up Declan Rice, whose powerful drive flew past Djordje Petrovic to put Arsenal ahead.
The England star wasn't finished, grabbing his brace minutes later following a brilliant team move between Saka and Martin Ødegaard. His celebration affectionately for the cameras, with the away side appearing cruising.
Late Nerves Sees Out the Win
Bournemouth, to their credit, found a response. Substitute Eli Junior Kroupi unleashed a spectacular 25-yard drive which soared into the net creating a nervous ending.
The Cherries pushed desperately in the dying moments, leaving their fans incensed when the final whistle sounded during a promising attack. For Arsenal and their traveling fans, it was all that mattered: another vital points in a relentless title pursuit.
