Bournemouth stun Arsenal to open the title race up | OneFootball

Bournemouth claimed a much-deserved victory over Arsenal to potentially open up the title race before the end of the season.

The Gunners looked tired from their midweek Champions League game in Lisbon where they earned a one-goal lead away to Sporting. As Mikel Arteta no doubt knew, Bournemouth are not the kind of team you want to face after a difficult mid-week fixture.

Indeed, the Cherries took the lead 17 minutes into the game at the Emirates Stadium when Adrien Truffert's cross from the left deflected on its way though to Junior Kroupi who was able to convert from close range for his 10th goal of the season.

The league leaders levelled the score from the penalty spot. There was not too much Ryan Christie when the ball was smashed at his arm from close range but since that arm was above his head a spot-kick was given with Viktor Gyökeres effective as ever, firing the ball past Djordje Petrovic.

In truth, that was one of just a few real chances Arsenal had against Bournemouth and the Cherries were good value for their second goal in the 75th minute – one that could prove pivotal for the title race.

It came from Arsenal struggling to get the ball out of their own half with Bournemouth's press as effective as ever. The ball then fell to Alex Scott who hammered and effort that David Raya could do nothing to keep out.

As usual, the Gunners had opportunities from set-pieces but Bournemouth dealt with them well with Petrovic punching corners away to help alleviate the pressure on his side.

That loss is Arsenal's third in four games across all competitions ahead of a busy week where Sporting visit for their Champions League second leg before a gigantic game at the Etihad Stadium against challengers Manchester City. This result and performance in particular will have fans worried.

However, it was another excellent display from Bournemouth who really can rattle teams when they're at their very best. Andoni Iraola's side now move up to ninth in the table.

Incidents: The story of the match

1':

The match begins

Bournemouth takes the lead 1-0 with Junior Kroupi scoring from close range with a right-footed shot into the right corner.

17':

GOAL Bournemouth: Eli Junior Kroupi (Bournemouth) scores!

Eli Junior Kroupi scores goal number 10 in the competition (27 matches)

35':

GOALArsenal: Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal) scores penalty-kick!

Viktor Gyökeres scores goal number 12 in the competition (30 matches)

Bournemouth leads 2-1 after Alex Scott scores with a right-footed shot from the center of the box.

74':

GOAL Bournemouth: Alex Scott (Bournemouth) scores!

Alex Scott scores goal number 3 in the competition (32 matches)

998':

The referee whistles for the end of the match