Sunday's Briefing: Rice Sparks Arsenal's Comeback as Wolves Secure First Victory
Arsenal Extend Lead at the Top
Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to six points after a thrilling comeback victory against Bournemouth. The Gunners came from behind to secure a 3-2 win at the Vitality Stadium, with Declan Rice playing a pivotal role in the team's resurgence.
Evanilson opened the scoring for Bournemouth by capitalising on a misplaced pass from Gabriel. However, the Brazilian soon made amends by equalising just six minutes later. Rice, who had missed his first Premier League game of the season due to a knee injury, returned to action and scored twice in the second half to help Arsenal take control of the match.
Rice’s first goal came in the 54th minute, putting the Gunners ahead. He added a second goal with 19 minutes remaining, sealing the victory. Despite a late effort from Eli Junior Kroupi, it was not enough to prevent Arsenal from extending their lead to six points. This result also continued Bournemouth’s winless streak, which now stands at 11 matches.
Mikel Arteta praised Rice’s performance, stating: “Declan is constantly adding things to his game, and his role in the team, and I don’t see where he can stop because he can still improve in a lot of areas and he wants to improve.”
Wolves Secure First Win of the Season
Wolves finally secured their first league victory of the season, marking Rob Edwards’ first three points as manager of the Premier League basement club. The 3-0 win over West Ham at Molineux was a significant moment for the team, deepening the Hammers' relegation fears.
Jhon Arias opened the scoring in the first half, followed by a penalty from Hwang Hee-chan. Mateus Mane then added the third goal of the match, completing a comfortable victory for Wolves. Nuno Espirito Santo, who returned to Wolves for the first time since his departure, faced a difficult day as his side suffered a heavy defeat.
Despite the loss, Wolves remain 12 points adrift of safety. However, the win has provided a glimmer of hope for the team’s survival chances. Edwards expressed his relief and satisfaction after the match, saying: “I feel good – probably a bit of relief and really pleased. It’s been a good day, so I’ll enjoy it and we should enjoy it, but it’s only one win. That’s all it is.”
Aston Villa Return to Winning Ways
Aston Villa ended their recent losing streak with a 3-1 victory over Nottingham Forest, extending their unbeaten home run to 11 matches. Ollie Watkins continued his impressive form by scoring his fourth goal in three games during the festive period. His efforts were instrumental in securing the win.
John McGinn also made a significant impact, scoring twice, including a stunning long-range goal from 35 yards. This result marked Villa’s best run at Villa Park since 1990. The win helped the team bounce back from their midweek defeat to Arsenal, while Nottingham Forest remained four points above the relegation zone after their fourth consecutive loss.
Unai Emery praised the team’s performance, stating: “The most important thing is how we can complete our tasks. The numbers are important because it makes them a protagonist. It is fantastic.”
What’s on Today
The Premier League schedule sees Manchester United travel to Leeds for an early kick-off, while Manchester City aim to close the gap on leaders Arsenal with a match against Chelsea.
On Sunday, Everton will face Brentford, and Liverpool will visit Fulham. Newcastle United look to extend their winning run with a match against Crystal Palace, while Tottenham Hotspur seek to end their home woes against Sunderland.
