Declan Rice delivered a match-winning double and reserved special praise for the creative genius of teammate Martin Odegaard as Arsenal secured a hard-fought 3-2 away victory over AFC Bournemouth on Saturday evening.
Rice and Odegaard Combine to Turn the Tide
The Gunners had to come from behind at the Vitality Stadium after an early error from defender Gabriel Magalhaes, who quickly atoned by scoring an equaliser. The game was then turned on its head by midfielder Declan Rice, who found the net twice to put Mikel Arteta's side in control.
His second goal was a prime example of team understanding, expertly set up by captain Martin Odegaard. Speaking to Arsenal's club media after the final whistle, Rice was effusive in his praise. "He's so intelligent," Rice said of Odegaard. "The way he feeds passes for you... there aren't many players in the world who can play those passes. He heard me - he was going to shoot but he set me back."
Support for Gyokeres Amid Goal Drought
Rice also offered strong public support for striker Viktor Gyokeres, who has faced scrutiny after a lean spell in front of goal following his big-money summer move. The England international highlighted the Swede's crucial, often unselfish, role in the team's build-up play.
"It's tough for him, because he's got two defenders on him all game," Rice explained. "He has to use his strength... that goal wouldn't happen without him making that run. Trust me, he's doing unbelievably for us, we wouldn't be where we are without him." Gyokeres now faces increased competition with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz back to full fitness.
Significance of the Victory
The three points, sealed despite a late Bournemouth wonder-strike, felt significant for Arsenal's title ambitions. The result means Arsenal have extended their lead over Manchester City, who do not play until Sunday. The Gunners' advantage at the top cannot be reduced to less than four points this weekend.
Attention now swiftly turns to a colossal clash with Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday, a fixture that will provide another major test of their championship credentials.
