Rice double powers Arsenal to six-point Premier League cushion

Declan Rice overcame a knee issue to inspire Arsenal to a six-point lead at the top of the Premier League, scoring twice in a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory away to Bournemouth.

The Gunners fell behind early after an uncharacteristic mistake from Gabriel Magalhaes allowed Evanilson to hand the hosts the lead. However, the Brazilian defender quickly made amends by drawing Arsenal level.

Rice, who had been sidelined from Tuesday’s emphatic 4-1 win over Aston Villa due to knee swelling, returned to the starting XI and made an immediate impact. The England midfielder struck twice either side of the hour mark to take his goal tally for the season to two.

Bournemouth briefly threatened a comeback when Eli Kroupi produced a superb long-range finish, but Arsenal managed the closing stages effectively to seal all three points. The win moves Mikel Arteta’s side seven points clear of Manchester City, who have a game in hand against managerless Chelsea on Sunday.

Arsenal’s afternoon began nervously as they conceded after just 10 minutes. Gabriel miscued a cross-field pass intended for Jurrien Timber, gifting possession to fellow Brazilian Evanilson, who calmly finished past David Raya for his first home goal of the campaign.

Gabriel responded swiftly, scoring the equaliser six minutes later. The towering centre-back followed up Noni Madueke’s deflected cross to register his 20th Premier League goal since joining Arsenal in 2020 — seven more than any other defender in that period.

Rice, increasingly influential in a more advanced role this season, put Arsenal ahead in the 56th minute after being teed up by Martin Odegaard, finishing confidently from the edge of the box.

Substitute Bukayo Saka then played a key role in Arsenal’s third goal, cutting the ball back for Rice to complete his brace.

Despite the defeat, Bournemouth showed attacking promise. Andoni Iraola’s side, who are now winless in 11 league matches since October 26, have still outscored all but five teams in the division this season. Kroupi’s spectacular effort ensured a tense finish.

Nevertheless, Arsenal held firm to secure another vital victory, taking a significant step towards ending their 22-year wait for a Premier League title.

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