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The league leaders' mission for payback this week marched on. After dismantling Aston Villa, the turn of Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth to feel the force even after receiving an opening goal courtesy of a uncharacteristic Gabriel error.

Gabriel made amends by scoring the equalizer, prior to Declan Rice marked a return from injury by netting a decisive brace as Arsenal stretched their advantage to six points.

The Arsenal manager promised his squad had learned following previous disappointing defeat. Following a sloppy first-half, it appeared old habits were lingering. However, a much sharper display after the interval, fueled by the midfielder's dominance, secured another three points and sent a message across the Premier League.

Early Setback Met With Quick Reply

Earlier results meant Arsenal's cushion cut before kick-off. The positive news, though, was their key midfielder coming through a last-minute assessment. Perhaps mindful of a crucial clash against rivals, Arteta rotated, as star wingers and Leandro Trossard among the substitutes.

Bournemouth, sticking with the same team, saw Antoine Semenyo almost create a dream start within seconds. Unexpectedly, the first goal fell to Bournemouth when a wayward Gabriel pass was intercepted for Evanilson, who finished calmly.

Mikel Arteta's ire was palpable, but it was the very same defender who provided the response. Following lively work from Noni Madueke, the ball broke to Gabriel, who lashed home with his weaker foot to restore parity.

Rice Rises to Seize Control

The first period was a struggle for the visitors, with their center-forward finding it tough and Evanilson causing problems. Frustration grew at halftime, with the Arsenal bench in a heated discussion with their counterparts before departing down the tunnel.

The team talk during the interval had a dramatic effect. Almost instantly of the restart, neat interplay involving Gyökeres and Martin Ødegaard set up Rice, whose powerful drive flew past Djordje Petrovic to put Arsenal ahead.

The England star wasn't finished, adding a second soon after following a brilliant team move involving Saka and Martin Ødegaard. His celebration with a kiss to a pitchside camera, with the away side seemed to be in complete control.

A Tense Finish Sees Out the Win

The home side, to their credit, summoned a response. Replacement Kroupi struck an outstanding long-range effort that flew into the net to set up a frantic finale.

The Cherries pushed desperately until the very end, with the home supporters incensed as full-time sounded midway through one last attack. However, for the victorious team, it was the only thing that counted: three more crucial points towards relentless title pursuit.