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Arsenal's mission for payback this week marched on. After dismantling Aston Villa, it was Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth to feel the force even after receiving an opening goal through a uncharacteristic Gabriel error.

The Brazilian defender made amends with a goal the equalizer, before 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 would learn following last season's disappointing defeat. After a sloppy opening 45 minutes, the signs suggested those lessons remained unlearned. Yet, a much sharper performance after the interval, inspired by the midfielder's dominance, secured another three points propelling a message across the Premier League.

Shaky Start Met With Quick Reply

The day's results meant Arsenal's cushion cut before kick-off. The positive news, though, was their key midfielder coming through a late fitness test. Perhaps mindful of a crucial meeting with Liverpool, changes were made, as Bukayo Saka and Trossard among the substitutes.

Bournemouth, sticking with the same team, watched their forward almost create a dream start within seconds. Unexpectedly, the opener fell to Bournemouth after a wayward attempted ball was intercepted for Evanilson, slotting home with ease.

Mikel Arteta's ire clear, but it was the very same defender who delivered the response. After lively work on the wing, a scramble ensued for the center-back, who lashed home with his weaker foot to make it 1-1.

Midfielder Takes Over to Seize Control

The opening half remained a struggle for Arsenal, as striker Viktor Gyökeres finding it tough while the Bournemouth forward proving a constant menace. Tempers flared at halftime, as the Arsenal bench exchanging words against the opposition before departing down the tunnel.

Whatever was said during the interval had a dramatic effect. Within a minute of the restart, a slick move involving Gyökeres and Martin Ødegaard set up Rice, who made no mistake flew past the goalkeeper to put Arsenal ahead.

The England star had more to offer, adding a second minutes later after a brilliant team move involving Saka and Ødegaard. He marked the goal affectionately for the cameras, with the away side appearing cruising.

Late Nerves Sees Out the Win

Bournemouth, refusing to give up, found a late rally. Replacement Eli Junior Kroupi struck an outstanding 25-yard drive that flew into the net creating a frantic finale.

The Cherries pressed for an equalizer in the dying moments, with their fans furious when full-time sounded during one last attack. For Arsenal and their traveling fans, it was the only thing that counted: another vital points towards their championship challenge.