The league leaders' mission for payback this week marched on. Following thrashing Aston Villa, it was Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth who felt their wrath despite being gifted an early lead through a uncharacteristic Gabriel Magalhães error.
Gabriel atoned with a goal to level, prior to Declan Rice marked his comeback with a match-winning double to help Mikel Arteta's side extended their advantage in the title race.
Mikel Arteta had vowed his players would learn from last season's disappointing defeat. Following a lethargic first-half, it appeared those lessons remained unlearned. Yet, a transformed display in the second period, inspired by Rice's marauding presence, secured a fifth consecutive league triumph propelling a stern warning across the Premier League.
Shaky Start and Immediate Response
The day's results had seen their lead trimmed to three points. The positive news, though, was Declan Rice passing a late fitness test. Perhaps mindful of an upcoming clash against rivals, Arteta rotated, as Bukayo Saka and Trossard among the substitutes.
Bournemouth, unchanged, watched Antoine Semenyo almost create a dream start within seconds. Against the run of play, the opener went to the hosts when a wayward attempted ball was intercepted to the striker, slotting home with ease.
Mikel Arteta's ire was palpable, however his mood changed with the culprit who provided the response. Following good play from Noni Madueke, the ball broke to Gabriel, who fired in a fierce left-footed finish to restore parity.
Rice Rises to Seize Control
The opening half remained far from fluid for the visitors, as striker Viktor Gyökeres isolated while Evanilson causing problems. Tempers flared at halftime, as the Arsenal bench exchanging words against their counterparts before departing down the tunnel.
Whatever was said during the interval worked wonders. Almost instantly of the restart, a slick move involving Gyökeres and Martin Ødegaard set up Declan Rice, whose powerful drive beat the goalkeeper to complete the turnaround.
Rice had more to offer, adding a second soon after after exquisite combination play between Bukayo Saka and Ødegaard. He marked the goal affectionately for the cameras, as Arsenal appearing in complete control.
A Tense Finish Sees Out the Win
Bournemouth, refusing to give up, found a late rally. Replacement Eli Junior Kroupi unleashed an outstanding 25-yard drive which soared into the net creating a frantic finale.
The Cherries pushed desperately until the very end, leaving their fans incensed as the final whistle sounded during a promising attack. However, for their traveling fans, it was the only thing that counted: three more crucial points in a their championship challenge.
