3 positives & negatives from Arsenal’s incredible Bournemouth comeback win

Positive #3: Electric atmosphere

This match, perhaps more than any other, demonstrated just how connected the fans are with this team. In years gone by, Arsenal going two goals down to Bournemouth would have led to an incredibly tense atmosphere at the Emirates. But, that is no longer the case.

From the first minute to the last, the crowd were simply electric. The support for the players was incredible, and without question, played a huge role in the comeback. The Emirates has become a fortress, a place in which the players benefit as much from the fans as the fans do from them.

After the game, Nelson spoke about the chaotic celebrations following his dramatic late winner.

"“It’s just amazing to celebrate with the supporters and the support we get, so hopefully we can carry it on for the next few games.”"

Arteta deserves huge praise for bridging the gap that once existed between the players and the fans.

Negative #3: Lack of creativity

With Trossard off the pitch, and Bournemouth deploying a very organised low block, the side struggled to create regular clear-cut chances. From a total of 31 shots, Arsenal registered an expected goals figure of 2.64. That figure is respectable, but from 31 shots, it suggests that the vast majority of our chances had very little probability of being converted.

Compare that to Bournemouth, who achieved an expected goals figure of 1.43 from just four shots, and it’s evident that although created with less frequency, the Cherries were able to produce higher potential goalscoring chances.

Ultimately, we secured the three points, so from that perspective, it was job done. But, Arteta and the players need to find a way to create better opportunities in front of goal when facing an opposition that sits back, as that will be the gameplan that many sides deploy against us between now and the end of the season.