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Arsenal's mission for payback this week has continued. After thrashing Aston Villa, it was Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth who felt the force despite receiving an early lead courtesy of a uncharacteristic Gabriel mistake.

Gabriel made amends with a goal to level, before Declan Rice marked a return from injury with a decisive brace as Mikel Arteta's side stretched their advantage in the title race.

The Arsenal manager had vowed his players would learn from last season's disappointing defeat. Following a lethargic opening 45 minutes, the signs suggested those lessons were lingering. However, a transformed performance after the interval, fueled by the midfielder's dominance, secured another league triumph and sent a stern warning to their rivals.

Early Setback Met With Quick Reply

Earlier events meant their lead cut to three points. The positive news, though, arrived with Declan Rice coming through a late fitness test. Perhaps mindful of a crucial meeting with Liverpool, changes were made, as star wingers and Leandro Trossard starting on the bench.

Bournemouth, unchanged, watched Antoine Semenyo nearly make a dream start within seconds. Against the run of play, the opener went to the hosts after a wayward attempted ball fell kindly for Evanilson, who finished calmly.

The manager's ire was palpable, but it was the very same defender who provided the response. After good play from Noni Madueke, 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 was far from fluid for the visitors, with striker Viktor Gyökeres finding it tough and the Bournemouth forward causing problems. Frustration grew before the break, as the Arsenal bench exchanging words with the opposition before departing to the dressing room.

The team talk at halftime worked wonders. Almost instantly of the restart, a slick move through the midfield presented a chance to Rice, who made no mistake flew past the goalkeeper to put Arsenal ahead.

Rice wasn't finished, adding a second minutes later following a brilliant team move between Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard. His celebration affectionately for the cameras, with the away side seemed to be cruising.

Late Nerves Sees Out the Win

Bournemouth, to their credit, summoned a response. Replacement Eli Junior Kroupi unleashed an outstanding long-range effort that flew into the net to set up a nervous ending.

The Cherries pushed desperately in the dying moments, leaving their fans furious when full-time was blown during one last attack. For Arsenal and the victorious team, it was the only thing that counted: another vital points towards their championship challenge.