Declan Rice scored a brace as Premier League leaders Arsenal overcame a sloppy start to beat Bournemouth 3-2. The Gunners were gifted the opening goal when Gabriel played a blind pass across his box, allowing Evanilson to score for the Cherries.
However, Gabriel made amends, lashing in a rebound after Gabriel Martinelli’s shot was blocked, to equalize for Arsenal. The visitors had chances to go ahead, but Rice’s shot from the edge of the box, courtesy of Martin Odegaard’s lay-off, gave Arsenal the lead.
Rice netted again following a cutback by substitute Bukayo Saka, but Bournemouth’s Eli Junior Kroupi gave them hope with a fine strike from outside the area. Despite Antoine Semenyo’s quiet game, the Cherries pushed hard for an equalizer, but it was Arsenal who held on.
The win puts Arsenal six points clear of second-placed Aston Villa, although Manchester City can close the gap to four points when they host Chelsea on Sunday.
