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Arsenal's mission for payback in recent days has continued. Following dismantling Aston Villa, the turn of Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth who felt the force even after receiving an opening goal through a rare Gabriel error.

The Brazilian defender atoned by scoring to level, before Declan Rice marked a return from injury with a decisive brace as Arsenal extended the gap at the summit to six points.

The Arsenal manager promised his squad would learn following previous loss on this ground. After a sloppy first-half, the signs suggested old habits remained unlearned. However, a much sharper performance after the interval, fueled by the midfielder's dominance, earned a fifth consecutive league triumph and sent a message across the Premier League.

Shaky Start Met With Quick Reply

Earlier events had seen their lead cut before kick-off. A major boost, though, arrived with Declan Rice coming through a late fitness test. Perhaps mindful of an upcoming clash against rivals, Arteta rotated, as Bukayo Saka and Trossard among the substitutes.

The Cherries, unchanged, watched their forward nearly make an instant impact within seconds. Unexpectedly, the opener fell to Bournemouth after 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 the response. Following lively work on the wing, the ball broke for the center-back, who lashed home with his weaker foot to make it 1-1.

Midfielder Takes Over to Seize Control

The first period was a struggle for the visitors, as their center-forward isolated and the Bournemouth forward causing problems. Tempers flared before the break, as Arteta in a heated discussion against their counterparts and heading off to the dressing room.

Whatever was said at halftime had a dramatic effect. Almost instantly of the restart, a slick move through the midfield presented a chance to Declan Rice, who made no mistake beat the goalkeeper to complete the turnaround.

The England star had more to offer, adding a second minutes later following a brilliant team move involving Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard. His celebration with a kiss for the cameras, as Arsenal seemed to be in complete control.

A Tense Finish But Job Done

Bournemouth, to their credit, summoned a response. Substitute Kroupi struck an outstanding 25-yard drive which soared past David Raya creating a frantic finale.

The Cherries pressed for an equalizer until the very end, leaving their fans furious when the final whistle was blown during a promising attack. For Arsenal and the victorious team, it was all that mattered: three more crucial points in a their championship challenge.