**Arsenal**extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to seven points after a 3-2 win over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.
A rare Gabriel mistake gifted Evanilson the opening goal before the defender made amends with a well-struck half-volleyed equaliser.
Declan Rice’s brace appeared to secure the three points for the visitors, but a thunderous Eli Junior Kroupi effort set up a tense final few minutes. However, Arsenal held on to extend their advantage at the top.
Arsenal (4-3-3)
David Raya – 6
The Spanish goalkeeper had little to do during the contest and was left helpless for both of Bournemouth’s goals. Gabriel’s backpass left Raya stranded in no-man's land for the Cherries’ first, and Kroupi’s strike was good enough to beat any goalkeeper.
Jurrien Timber – 7
Timber did well to prevent Bournemouth’s left-hand side from being at its best. The Dutchman did well to lock this down.
William Saliba – 7
Saliba made a few vital interventions when Arsenal were under the cosh in the opening stages. Apart from that, he was largely unchallenged and did well to repel the aerial bombardment that Bournemouth imposed on the Gunners in the dying embers.
Gabriel Magalhaes – 7
(Credit: David Price/ GettyImages).
Aside from his uncharacteristic error, Gabriel was imperious throughout the rest of the encounter. He took his goal well and defended well.
Piero Hincapie – 6
Hincapie has deputised as a left back to Riccardo Calafiori in recent weeks, but he did look shaky against Antoine Semenyo at times.
Martin Ødegaard – 7
Ødegaard has picked up form in recent weeks and provided another assist, this time for Rice’s first goal, which turned out to be pivotal.
Martin Zubimendi – 7
It was another solid display from Zubimendi, who allows Rice to go forward and attack the opposition. The Spaniard’s composure on the ball means that he can dictate the tempo of the game.
Declan Rice – 9
Rice is putting up a serious challenge to be the world’s best midfielder. Again, his output has been brilliant with a well-taken brace against the Cherries.
Noni Madueke – 7
When looking purely at numbers, many would suggest that Madueke has been a poor addition to the Gunners’ squad. However, he has performed well in nearly all of the games he has featured in. The run he made that led to the first Arsenal goal was spectacular, showcasing his directness.
Viktor Gyokeres – 6
The Swedish striker went without a goal again, but he was involved in the build-up play for Rice’s first as he held up the ball for Odegaard, who picked out the midfielder well.
Gabriel Martinelli – 4
Martinelli was poor from the start. The winger failed to beat his full back, and when presented with the opportunity to play in Madueke, he spurned the chance.
Substitutes
Bukayo Saka – 7
Saka contributed from the bench with an assist for Rice, who swept in the winger’s precise cut back.
Gabriel Jesus – 6
Did well from the bench.
Leandro Trossard – 6
Made an impact on the left-hand side.
Mikel Merino – N/A