Arsenal suffered a major setback in the Premier League title chase on Saturday, losing 2-1 at home to Bournemouth, giving Manchester City renewed hope of overtaking the long-time leaders.
Junior Kroupi gave the visitors the lead at Emirates Stadium, but Mikel Arteta’s side equalised late in the first half with a penalty from Viktor Gyokeres.
The Arsenal made numerous attacking substitutions early in the second half but struggled to produce clear-cut chances against Andoni Iraola’s enterprising team.
Bournemouth were back in front in the 74th minute after a fluid move finished off by Alex Scott, who rifled the ball past David Raya.
Arsenal fought for a leveller but suffered only their second home defeat of the season.
With six games remaining, Arsenal, chasing their first Premier League crown since 2004, is nine points ahead of second-placed City.
However, if Guardiola’s side beats Chelsea on Sunday and defeats Arsenal in an Etihad summit meeting next week, they will be within three points of the top spot.
Sun
