Declan Rice scored twice as Arsenal came from behind to defeat Bournemouth 3–2 at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday, stretching their lead at the top of the Premier League table to six points.
The England midfielder returned to the starting line up after missing midweek action with a knee issue and delivered a decisive performance, finding the net either side of the hour mark to seal a vital away victory for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Arsenal endured an early setback when a rare error from Gabriel Magalhaes handed Bournemouth the lead after just 10 minutes.
The Brazilian defender misplaced a cross field pass, allowing Evanilson to pounce and slot past David Raya for his first home goal of the season.
The visitors responded quickly. Gabriel made amends six minutes later, reacting fastest inside the box to fire home from close range after a deflected delivery, restoring parity and calming Arsenal nerves.
Rice, deployed in a more advanced role this season, then took control of the contest after the break. On 56 minutes, Martin Odegaard picked him out on the edge of the box and the midfielder showed composure to guide his finish beyond the goalkeeper and put Arsenal ahead.
Bukayo Saka, introduced from the bench, played a key role in Arsenal’s third goal. The winger burst down the right flank before cutting the ball back for Rice, who swept home his second of the game to give the league leaders breathing space.
Bournemouth refused to go quietly and reduced the deficit in the 76th minute when Eli Kroupi produced a stunning long range strike to set up a tense finish. However, Arsenal defended resolutely in the closing stages to see out the win.
The result moves Arsenal seven points clear of Manchester City, who have a game in hand and face Chelsea on Sunday. For Bournemouth, the defeat extends their winless run to 11 matches, despite another spirited display that again showed their attacking threat.
With Rice adding crucial goals to his game and Arsenal continuing to grind out results on the road, Arteta’s men took another significant step in their bid to end a 22 year wait for the Premier League title.
