Arsenal came from behind to beat Bournemouth as the Gunners protected their lead at the top of the Premier League table over Aston Villa
Arsenal managed to claw their way back from an early setback to secure a win over Bournemouth, maintaining their position at the top of the Premier League table.
The Gunners found themselves on the back foot after a blunder by Gabriel Magalhaes, who under pressure, passed the ball straight to Evanilson. This allowed the Cherries’ striker to slide the ball into an open goal, leaving Arsenal with some catching up to do.
However, Gabriel quickly made amends, smashing the ball into the net following Noni Madueke’s dynamic run that caused havoc in the box. Despite a sluggish start, Arsenal found their rhythm in the second half.
And they took the lead thanks to a superb finish from Declan Rice, who later doubled his tally with another impressive strike. Bournemouth ignited hopes of a comeback when substitute Eli Junior Kroupi scored from range.
But they were unable to find an equaliser, allowing the Gunners to breathe a sigh of relief at the final whistle.
Daily Star Sport provides a rundown of the Arsenal players’ performances in today’s victory…
Arsenal player ratings vs Bournemouth.
David Raya, 6 – Despite conceding two goals, one due to Gabriel’s error and the other from Kroupi’s precise shot, he was largely untroubled for the rest of the match, reports the Express.
Jurrien Timber, 6 – He managed the right flank quite well, regaining possession and connecting with his team-mates through simple passes. He occasionally ventured forward and had good synergy with Madueke.
William Saliba, 7 – His aerial prowess was put to good use against Bournemouth’s crosses, and he positioned himself well for crucial interceptions and tackles. A sturdy performance overall.
Gabriel Magalhaes, 6 – Despite a shaky start with the opening goal, he quickly redeemed himself by scoring from close range just minutes later. He maintained a good performance for the remainder of the match.
Piero Hincapie, 5 – He had some difficulties, occasionally losing control of the ball due to a poor first touch and making incorrect decisions about whether to run inside or outside.
Martin Zubimendi, 5 – He seemed out of sync and struggled under the pressure of Bournemouth’s press. While he kept the midfield ticking over to some extent, he could have done more to influence the game.
Declan Rice, 8 – Despite an initially lacklustre performance, he turned things around with a brilliant finish into the bottom corner, before adding another to his tally as time ran out. Ultimately, it was a match-winning display.
Martin Odegaard, 7 – He was evidently asked to play deeper than usual, which didn’t yield the desired results early on. However, he improved after half-time and provided the assist for Rice’s first goal, also playing a part in his team-mate’s second.
Noni Madueke, 7 – He was energetic from the off, using his nimble footwork to penetrate the final third. He crafted the equaliser with a winding run to the byline that caused havoc in the box.
Gabriel Martinelli, 4 – Despite seeing plenty of the ball, he failed to make an impact, essentially fading into the background for the duration of his time on the pitch.
Viktor Gyokeres, 6 – He put in a good shift trying to create opportunities but struggled to get many shots off. He did well to hold up the ball for Rice’s first goal.
Substitutes:
Bukayo Saka, 7 – Played a significant role in setting up Arsenal’s third goal, finding Rice with a superb pass. A game-changing appearance from the winger.
Gabriel Jesus, 6 – Had limited chances with the ball as Arsenal adopted a defensive stance after conceding for the second time.
Leandro Trossard, 5 – Lost possession several times due to overhandling and appeared too nonchalant with the ball. Not his best performance.
Mikel Merino, 6 – Brought on following Bournemouth’s second goal to add some extra solidity in midfield and performed his duties adequately.
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