Arsenal finally got back to winning ways on Sunday after three consecutive league draws, beating high-flying AFC Bournemouth 2-1 at the Vitality Stadium.
This was always going to be a tough match, given Bournemouth’s attacking prowess, and they didn’t disappoint on that front. Arsenal had to pull off a few last-ditch challenges and blocks to prevent the home side taking the lead early on, and they got a bit of help via a dodgy offside decision from the linesman.
Perhaps riding their luck at that stage, the Gunners eventually grew into the game, and they had the better of the chances for the most part. It was all about grinding out the result on this occasion, so we can’t complain, even if the performance wasn’t always vintage Arsenal.
Let’s have a look at our individual ratings for the match:
4Substitutes
Matteo Guendouzi 7
Guendouzi came on for the final 10 minutes and saw out the win, set with the tough task of replacing Lucas Torreira. The midfielder continues to prove an effective alternative to Xhaka or Torreira despite his age.
Aaron Ramsey 7
Ramsey had a couple of nice touches and one not so nice one. He redeemed his one mistake with a very solid tackle and created a decent chance. It seems the Welshman is set to continue his bit-part role in the league team, but will likely start in the Europa League on Thursday as Arsenal try to secure top spot in the group.
Eddie Nketiah N/A
Nketiah didn’t get a touch in his minute on the pitch, but it was still great to see him subbed on. The young striker has had to wait a few months now for his first senior minutes of the season, but this brief appearance shows Emery trusts him as an option in the league.
Hopefully, he’ll follow it up with another game against Vorskla on Thursday. Aubameyang and Lacazette could use the rest after their recent injuries.