Declan Rice returned from a knee injury to score twice as Arsenal came from behind to beat Bournemouth 3-2 on Saturday, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League. The win keeps them six points ahead of Manchester City, who have a game in hand.
The Comeback
Arsenal made it difficult for themselves early. Gabriel Magalhaes, normally reliable at the back, made a rare error that allowed Bournemouth's Evanilson to open the scoring. But Magalhaes responded quickly, leveling the match himself and setting the tone for what would become a strong second-half performance.
"We made it harder for ourselves with the first goal," Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said afterward. "But I love the character of the team and the character of Gabi. We have grown over the years."
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Start Your News DetoxRice had been uncertain to play after missing Tuesday's 4-1 win over Aston Villa with knee swelling. His return proved decisive. The England midfielder scored twice in quick succession around the hour mark with composed finishes, giving Arsenal control of the match. Bournemouth pulled one back through Eli Kroupi's strike, but Arsenal managed the closing stages comfortably to secure the three points.
The win moves Arsenal seven points clear of Manchester City ahead of City's game in hand against Chelsea on Sunday.
Elsewhere in the League
Aston Villa bounced back from their midweek thrashing by Arsenal, beating Nottingham Forest 3-1 at home to move into second place. Ollie Watkins scored before halftime, and John McGinn added two in the second half to ease the sting of their 4-1 loss to the Gunners.
West Ham's struggles deepened with a 3-0 defeat at Wolves. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo acknowledged the performance fell short, apologizing to supporters after what he called an "embarrassing" first half.
