Declan Rice delivered a match-winning performance on the south coast, scoring twice to propel Arsenal to a vital 3-2 victory over Bournemouth and strengthen their grip on the Premier League summit.
Early Shock and Gabriel's Redemption
The Gunners' afternoon began in disastrous fashion when defender Gabriel Magalhães gifted Bournemouth an early lead with a shocking backpass that was intercepted by Dominic Solanke for a simple finish. It was a moment that seemed to rattle Mikel Arteta's side, who appeared nervous and edgy for long periods against an energetic Cherries outfit.
Gabriel, however, swiftly made amends. After fine work on the right flank from Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli's shot was parried into the Brazilian defender's path, and he fired home the equaliser to settle Arsenal's nerves.
Rice Steps Up in the Big Moment
With the game in the balance, the club's record signing took centre stage. Declan Rice scored the first brace of his Arsenal career with two almost identical finishes. Making late, powerful runs into the box, he guided two effortless right-footed passes into the bottom corner, first from a Martin Ødegaard assist and then after a mazy run from substitute Bukayo Saka.
His second goal proved the winner, as Bournemouth's Junior Kroupi pulled a goal back late on to set up a tense finale. After the final whistle, Rice's euphoria was clear as he raced to the travelling fans, grabbed a television camera, and planted a kiss on the lens—a symbolic embrace of Arsenal's title charge.
Title Implications and Squad Depth
This was a potentially pivotal result in the championship battle. Following Manchester City's surprise draw at Sunderland, Arsenal's victory opened up an eight-point gap over Pep Guardiola's side, at least temporarily. The win also showcased the squad depth that has often eluded Arsenal in past campaigns, with Arteta able to call upon the likes of Saka, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Martinelli from the bench to change the game.
The match was also notable for the performance of Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo, who started amid intense speculation over a looming transfer to Manchester City. He caused problems throughout, underlining why Pep Guardiola is reportedly so keen to sign him.
For Arsenal, the victory at the Vitality Stadium was a statement. After previous stumbles from winning positions, they demonstrated the resilience and individual quality required to see off a dangerous opponent and take a significant step towards ending their long wait for Premier League glory.
