EPL: Arsenal Open Six-Point Gap At The Summit After Thrilling Bournemouth Win
2 min read
By Sedara Philip
Arsenal tightened their grip on the Premier League title race on Saturday night with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Bournemouth, extending their lead at the top of the table to six points.
The Gunners went into the late kick-off under pressure after Aston Villa climbed into second place earlier in the day with a convincing 3-1 win against Nottingham Forest.
A response was required at the Emirates Stadium, and Mikel Arteta’s side delivered, albeit after being pushed all the way by a spirited Bournemouth outfit.
Despite dominating possession in the early exchanges, Arsenal were stunned when Bournemouth struck first. A misplaced pass from Gabriel in his own half was ruthlessly punished as Evanilson pounced on the loose ball and clinically finished to give the visitors a shock lead.
The setback did little to dent Arsenal’s confidence, and the hosts responded swiftly.
Six minutes later, Gabriel redeemed himself by rising highest in the penalty area to power home the equaliser, restoring parity and reigniting the home crowd.
Arsenal emerged from the interval with renewed intensity and soon took firm control of the contest.
Midfield general Declan Rice was at the heart of the resurgence, scoring twice in quick succession to open a commanding two-goal cushion and put the Gunners firmly in the driving seat.
Bournemouth, however, refused to go quietly. Substitute Kroupi Jr pulled a goal back to set up a tense finale, applying late pressure and testing Arsenal’s resolve in the closing stages.
But Arteta’s men showed composure and maturity, managing the game effectively to see out the victory and secure all three points.
The win sees Arsenal move six points clear at the top of the Premier League standings, reinforcing their credentials as genuine title contenders as the season enters a decisive phase.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
