Arteta: Bournemouth win a sign of ‘growth’

ARSENAL fought back from a goal down to beat Bournemouth 3-2 on Saturday, stretching their lead at the top of the Premier League, at least for a day, as Aston Villa extended their winning run at home.

- 

ARSENAL midfielder Declan Rice celebrates scoring one of his goals that gave them a 3-2 win against Bournemouth during the English Premier League football match at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth.

(AFP)

A goal from Gabriel Magalhaes and two from the returning Declan Rice sent the Gunners six points clear of second-placed Villa and seven ahead of Manchester City, who were still to play Chelsea at home yesterday.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised the character of his team, singling out Rice and Gabriel, whose sloppy pass set up Bournemouth for the opening goal.

“I love the character of Gabriel, the way he overcame that situation - it’s just unbelievable, it says a lot about how much we've grown,’ he told Sky Sports.

“The team found a way to beat them and it’s a massive win”

The Spaniard said that Rice had worked hard to be available after missing Tuesday’s 4-1 home win against Villa with a knee problem.

“He has stretched himself to the very limit and the team were awarded with two great goals,” he added.