The league leaders' revenge tour this week marched on. Following dismantling Aston Villa, the turn of Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth who felt their wrath despite receiving an opening goal courtesy of a uncharacteristic Gabriel Magalhães error.
The Brazilian defender atoned by scoring the equalizer, prior to the returning midfielder celebrated a return from injury with a match-winning double to help Arsenal extended the gap at the summit in the title race.
The Arsenal manager had vowed his squad had learned following previous loss on this ground. Following a sloppy opening 45 minutes, the signs suggested those lessons remained unlearned. However, a much sharper display in the second period, inspired by Rice's marauding presence, earned a fifth consecutive three points propelling a message to their rivals.
Shaky Start and Immediate Response
Earlier events had seen their lead cut before kick-off. The positive news, though, arrived with their key midfielder coming through a last-minute assessment. With an eye on a crucial meeting with Liverpool, Arteta rotated, with Bukayo Saka and Trossard among the substitutes.
The Cherries, sticking with the same team, saw Antoine Semenyo nearly make a dream start immediately. Against the run of play, the opener went to the hosts when an errant attempted ball was intercepted to the striker, slotting home with ease.
The manager's frustration was palpable, however his mood changed with the very same defender who delivered redemption. Following lively work from Noni Madueke, a scramble ensued for the center-back, who fired in a fierce left-footed finish to make it 1-1.
Midfielder Takes Over to Seize Control
The first period remained a struggle for the visitors, as striker Viktor Gyökeres isolated and the Bournemouth forward proving a constant menace. Tempers flared before the break, as Arteta exchanging words with their counterparts and heading off to the dressing room.
The team talk during the interval worked wonders. Almost instantly of the restart, a slick move through the midfield set up Rice, whose powerful drive flew past the goalkeeper to complete the turnaround.
Rice wasn't finished, adding a second soon after after a brilliant team move involving Bukayo Saka and Ødegaard. His celebration with a kiss for the cameras, with the away side appearing cruising.
Late Nerves Sees Out the Win
The home side, to their credit, summoned a response. Substitute Eli Junior Kroupi unleashed an outstanding long-range effort which soared into the net to set up a nervous ending.
Bournemouth pushed desperately until the very end, with their fans incensed when the final whistle was blown during one last attack. For Arsenal and their traveling fans, it was the only thing that counted: three more crucial points towards their championship challenge.
