🔗 Share this article Declan Rice Inspires The Gunners to Dramatic Comeback Victory at Bournemouth The league leaders' mission for payback in recent days marched on. After thrashing Aston Villa, the turn of Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth to feel the force even after receiving an early lead courtesy of a rare Gabriel Magalhães error. The Brazilian defender atoned by scoring the equalizer, prior to Declan Rice marked his comeback with a match-winning double as Mikel Arteta's side stretched their advantage to six points. Mikel Arteta had vowed his squad would learn following last season's loss on this ground. After a sloppy first-half, the signs suggested old habits were lingering. However, a much sharper display after the interval, inspired by the midfielder's dominance, earned another three points and sent a stern warning across the Premier League. Early Setback Met With Quick Reply Earlier results meant their lead cut before kick-off. The positive news, though, was Declan Rice coming through a late fitness test. With an eye on a crucial clash against rivals, changes were made, as star wingers and Trossard among the substitutes. Bournemouth, unchanged, saw Antoine Semenyo almost create a dream start immediately. Against the run of play, the opener fell to the hosts after an errant attempted ball was intercepted to the striker, who finished calmly. The manager's frustration was palpable, however his mood changed with the very same defender who delivered redemption. Following lively work on the wing, the ball broke to Gabriel, who fired in with his weaker foot to make it 1-1. Rice Rises and Steer the Game The opening half was far from fluid for Arsenal, with their center-forward isolated and Evanilson proving a constant menace. Tempers flared at halftime, as the Arsenal bench exchanging words with the opposition before departing down the tunnel. Whatever was said at halftime had a dramatic effect. Almost instantly of the restart, a slick move through the midfield set up Declan Rice, whose powerful drive beat Djordje Petrovic to put Arsenal ahead. Rice wasn't finished, grabbing his brace soon after following a brilliant team move involving Saka and Martin Ødegaard. He marked the goal affectionately for the cameras, with the away side seemed to be cruising. A Tense Finish Sees Out the Win The home side, to their credit, found a response. Replacement Eli Junior Kroupi unleashed an outstanding long-range effort which soared past David Raya creating a nervous ending. The Cherries pressed for an equalizer until the very end, with their fans incensed when full-time sounded during one last attack. For Arsenal and the victorious team, it was the only thing that counted: another vital points in a relentless title pursuit.