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Home > Arsenal > The Gunners’ Late Comeback Victory Could Prove Pivotal for the Title Race | Three Crucial Lessons Learnt From the Arsenal-Bournemouth Game

The Gunners’ Late Comeback Victory Could Prove Pivotal for the Title Race | Three Crucial Lessons Learnt From the Arsenal-Bournemouth Game

Arsenal vs Bournemouth

We observed three crucial things as Arsenal overcame a significant challenge from Bournemouth to win 3-2 in a gripping Premier League tie. Arsenal had to face serious resistance from a determined Bournemouth side, but the league leaders showed their tough mentality by recovering from a two-goal deficit to eventually overcome the Cherries.

The Gunners suffered a shocking start to the game at the Emirates Stadium, conceding a goal after just 9 seconds, with Philip Billing finding the back of the net before the hosts could even touch the ball. When Marcos Senesi rose unmarked to head in the visitors’ second goal just before the hour mark, it seemed as though the Gunners’ grasp on the top spot was slipping away.

Arsenal, Bournemouth
Image Obtained Via Sky Sports

Despite facing a challenging situation, Arsenal’s youthful team remained determined and managed to equalise the score with two goals in just seven minutes following the hour mark. Surprisingly, both goals were scored by unexpected players, with Thomas Partey finishing off Emile Smith Rowe’s header at the back post, and Ben White converting Reiss Nelson’s cross.

Despite continued efforts from the Arsenal players to secure a victory against Bournemouth, it wasn’t until the last kick of the game that Reiss Nelson, who is set to leave the club this summer, beautifully curled the ball into the net, causing a frenzy at the Emirates stadium.

1. Bournemouth Fall Apart Despite Billing Scoring Second Fastest PL Goal

With the time reading 9.11 seconds, Philip Billing’s close-range finish from an attack straight from the kick-off became the second-fastest goal ever scored in the Premier League era. Shane Long’s goal for Southampton against Watford in 2019 remains the fastest Premier League goal scored in history, with the Irish striker having scored just 7.69 seconds into the match at Vicarage Road.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth’s recent record has been disappointing as they have lost three out of their last four Premier League games in which they had a 2+ goal lead. The Cherries also have just one win in their last four games overall.

2. This Nelson Winner Could be Pivotal for the Title Race

For the first time since February 2012 when they defeated Tottenham Hotspur 5-2, the Gunners have managed to secure a victory in a Premier League game in which they trailed by 2 or more goals. If Arsenal manage to go on to win the league title this season, which will be their first since 2004, this match against Bournemouth could be considered a crucial turning point.

At the one-hour mark, Arsenal were trailing by two goals, and Bournemouth were seriously threatening to disrupt their title charge. It was only a matter of time before the decisive goal came from the hosts, and they managed to get all three points to restore their five-point lead at the top of the table, which could have been reduced to two.

This victory emphasised that the games which may seem like easy wins can be challenging in the final stages of the campaign. Arsenal’s display had great character and resilience, which may have a demoralising impact on their rivals watching the game.

3.  Arteta Got His Substitutions Right

Takehiro Tomiyasu had a subpar performance in the first half, which prompted manager Mikel Arteta to replace him after the break. As the Japanese full-back wasn’t effective, the decision was made to bring on Ben White during half-time.

Additionally, the Spanish manager made a tough call by taking off Emile Smith Rowe for Reiss Nelson, who ended up making a significant impact on the game.

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Despite dominating possession, the North London side struggled to break through Bournemouth’s defence, with visiting goalkeeper Neto and some last-ditch defending denying the hosts on several occasions. However, the Cherries also had their fair share of opportunities.

This thrilling win enabled the Gunners to maintain their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League table. After Manchester City’s 2-0 victory over Newcastle United, which had narrowed the lead to two points, the pressure was on for the Gunners. Arsenal play Sporting CP in the Europa League next in the Round of 16.

Follow AD for the Latest Matchday Updates for Arsenal.

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