Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to four points as they defeated AFC Bournemouth 3-0.
In a match marred by controversial VAR decisions, it was goals from Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard and Declan Rice that proved to be the difference as the Gunners remain on top of the league.
Bournemouth had chances throughout the second half, but it was a professional performance from Mikel Arteta’s side to edge closer to the title.
Here are five things we learnt from the match…
Arsenal look the real deal
It might have taken 17 shots in the first half to break through the Bournemouth defence, but the domination shown by Arsenal in the first period was mesmerising. The Gunners allowed the visitors little to work with, pinning them back at every given point. Brave defending and poor finishing constituted to only a 1-0 lead at half-time, but it was arguably the most one sided half from any match this season, more impressive given how well Bournemouth have performed of late.
Saka delivers under pressure
Arsenal picked up yet another crucial win on their quest for a first Premier League title in 20 years, and Bukayo Saka was instrumental to this. After surviving a terrible challenge in the first half, which saw no booking from the Bournemouth player, Saka played the role of tormentor as he constantly toyed with the visiting defence. He and Martin Odegaard were the architects to most of Arsenal’s attacks, with the 21-year-old on hand to stroke home the first half penalty to set the Gunners on their way.
Bournemouth show quality despite loss
Despite their struggles in the first half, where they were blown away by Arsenal, Bournemouth showed they should not be underestimated. Under Andoni Iraola, the Cherries have been in superb form, and are currently the fifth most inform team since picking up their first win of the season after nine matches. A child hood friend of Arteta, Andoni has got Bournemouth playing attractive, intense football which even rivals some of the league’s best sides. Ones to watch for next season.
VAR the biggest talking point yet again
In a match where Arsenal showed their class and Bournemouth showed potential, the biggest talking point will be VAR yet again. Widely debated amongst journalists and fans, all three big calls that went to VAR were incorrect. Ryan Christie’s terrible challenge on Saka’s shin left the Englishman on the floor in a heap, but VAR ruled no wrongdoing with the Bournemouth midfielder not even receiving a yellow. Kai Havertz was barely caught by Mark Travers for Arsenal’s penalty and David Raya was not strong enough to battle with Dominic Solanke which led to the Cherries’ disallowed goal. Another disappointing showing from the officials.
Havertz outstanding up top keeps Jesus in place
He might have not scored but Kai Havertz is looking like one of the transfers of the season. After initially struggling as a left sided central midfielder, the German has flourished as the main striker for the Gunners. 12 goals and six assists in the Premier League has the 24-year-old at a decent return, but it is his overall play that garners him all the praise from Arsenal fans and his manager Mikel Arteta. An athletic beast, with superb technical ability, Havertz is now in such form that Arteta cannot drop him. He’s come a long way since his early season struggles.
