of weapons Premier League Title hopes suffered a major blow on Saturday as they were beaten 2-1 by Bournemouth at the Emirates, giving Manchester City renewed belief in their race to the top of the table.Bournemouth struck first in the 17th minute when Junior Croppy pounced on a loose ball inside the box after a looping deflection from William Saliba fell into his path, allowing him to tap home from close range and silence the home crowd.Arsenal responded and gradually grew into the game, finally with their pressing in the 35th minute. Victor Guicaris stepped up to break the penalty after Ryan Christie was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the area. The goal brought Arsenal level and briefly settled the nerves around the stadium.The Gunners came out strong after the break, and Mikel Arteta Reacting with bold attacking changes, Eberechi Eze introduced 16-year-old Max Dowman and Leandro Trossard in place of Kai Havertz, Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli. However, despite the fresh legs, Arsenal continued to struggle to break down Bournemouth’s disciplined defensive structure.Bournemouth, however, were dangerous in transition and regained the lead in the 74th minute with a well-taken move. David Brooks created the opening before Avenelson’s involvement helped the ball fall Alex Scottwho finished strongly by drilling a powerful shot past David Raya.Arsenal threw everything forward in the closing stages but lacked precision in the final third. Gyökeres came close late on, firing wide in stoppage time, as Bournemouth held firm under pressure.The hosts ended with just three shots on target and suffered only their second home league defeat of the season, a worrying sign given the timing of the run-in.Arsenal are nine points clear at the top with six games to go in pursuit of a first Premier League title since 2004, but Manchester City, with a game in hand, now have a clear chance to close the gap and put pressure on the leaders.
