The league leaders' mission for payback in recent days marched on. Following dismantling Aston Villa, it was Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth to feel their wrath even after being gifted an early lead courtesy of a rare Gabriel mistake.
Gabriel made amends with a goal the equalizer, before Declan Rice marked a return from injury by netting a decisive brace as Arsenal extended their advantage to six points.
Mikel Arteta had vowed his players had learned from previous loss on this ground. Following a lethargic opening 45 minutes, it appeared old habits remained unlearned. However, a transformed performance in the second period, inspired by Rice's marauding presence, earned a fifth consecutive league triumph propelling a message to their rivals.
Shaky Start Met With Quick Reply
Earlier results meant their lead cut to three points. A major boost, though, arrived with their key midfielder passing a late fitness test. Perhaps mindful of an upcoming clash against rivals, Arteta rotated, as Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard among the substitutes.
Bournemouth, unchanged, saw their forward nearly make a dream start within seconds. Unexpectedly, the opener fell to Bournemouth when an errant Gabriel pass was intercepted for Evanilson, slotting home with ease.
Mikel Arteta's frustration was palpable, however his mood changed with the culprit who delivered redemption. After good play on the wing, the ball broke to Gabriel, who lashed home a fierce left-footed finish to restore parity.
Midfielder Takes Over to Seize Control
The first period remained far from fluid for the visitors, with their center-forward isolated and the Bournemouth forward causing problems. Frustration grew at halftime, as the Arsenal bench exchanging words against the opposition before departing down the tunnel.
Whatever was said at halftime had a dramatic effect. Almost instantly of the restart, neat interplay through the midfield presented a chance to Rice, whose powerful drive flew past the goalkeeper to put Arsenal ahead.
The England star had more to offer, adding a second minutes later following a brilliant team move between Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard. He marked the goal affectionately for the cameras, as Arsenal appearing in complete control.
A Tense Finish But Job Done
Bournemouth, to their credit, found a response. Replacement Kroupi unleashed a spectacular 25-yard drive which soared past David Raya creating a frantic finale.
The Cherries pushed desperately in the dying moments, with their fans furious as the final whistle was blown midway through one last attack. However, for the victorious team, the result was all that mattered: another vital points in a their championship challenge.
