Declan Rice inspires Arsenal to overcome Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium with two decisive goals to kickstart their Premier League title charge

It’s not every day you see a player practically hijack a camera and a match at the same time.

That’s exactly what Declan Rice did at the Vitality Stadium, striding over to the corner where Arsenal fans were tucked in, grabbing a television camera, and planting a cheeky kiss on the lens.

Symbolically, that felt like him planting his stamp on Arsenal’s Premier League campaign, a reminder that big moments are seized by those who dare to take them.

Stepping Up When Arsenal Wobbled

The game started nervously for the Gunners.

Gabriel’s shocking backpass handed Bournemouth an early lead, a reminder that even the most composed teams can falter.

For a while, Arsenal looked tense, jittery, and vulnerable under pressure.

But Rice stepped forward with calm authority.

In his first brace for the club, two perfectly timed strikes pushed Arsenal ahead, then doubled the lead, giving the team breathing room even as Bournemouth fought back late through Junior Kroupi.

Bournemouth No Longer an Easy Trip

Heading to the south coast isn’t the simple outing it once was.

Last season, the Cherries did the double over Arsenal, and this campaign they had the memory of October’s close encounter on their side.

But with Bournemouth struggling to win in their last ten games, Arsenal had to show title-winning credentials, especially with Manchester City slipping up at Sunderland.

Rice ensured Arsenal didn’t leave this chance behind.

Breaking the Halfway Curse

Historically, Arsenal have stumbled when leading at the season’s midpoint, failing to convert the advantage in 2003, 2014, 2024, and 2016.

That’s why this game mattered beyond three points.

It was about asserting themselves as serious title contenders.

Rice’s brilliance reminded everyone that Arsenal’s core of talent now has the composure to lead with confidence.

Early Threats and Semenyo’s Spotlight

Before the match, Vitality Stadium ran through the mascots’ favourite players.

Half of the kids had Antoine Semenyo on their list — no wonder, given his imminent move to Manchester City.

He tested Arsenal immediately, darting into spaces, delivering dangerous crosses, and bulldozing defenders.

For a moment, it looked like he might replicate the havoc William Saliba caused last season.

But Arsenal steadied, showing their growth as a squad.

Gabriel’s Redemption

Ironically, it was Gabriel who gave Bournemouth an early gift.

But the centre-back quickly redeemed himself, firing home the equaliser after Martinelli’s initial effort rebounded off the keeper.

Moments like these show Arsenal’s resilience — they can recover from errors without panicking, a hallmark of a side with title-winning aspirations.

Arsenal’s Depth Shines Through

Mikel Arteta’s squad now has the luxury of rotation without sacrificing quality.

While Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard were rested, Martinelli and Noni Madueke slotted in seamlessly, influencing the game at key moments.

Martin Odegaard returned to his best form, laying on the first goal, while Saka’s late run squared up the second.

Arsenal are no longer reliant on a few stars carrying them; their depth is becoming a genuine weapon.

Rice the Game-Changer

In the end, the match was Rice’s show.

He took control when Arsenal needed composure, converted crucial chances, and reminded everyone that the Premier League title race isn’t won by nerves but by players willing to seize the big moments.

Arsenal left Bournemouth with three points, confidence, and the sense that this team has the tools, the depth, and the character to go all the way.

Looking Ahead

With Manchester City dropping points and a crucial visit from Chelsea on the horizon, Arsenal are poised to open a gap at the top.

Rice’s performance wasn’t just about two goals; it was a statement that this squad is ready to challenge, rotate, and respond to adversity — everything a title-winning team must do.

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