Despite losing two league games on the bounce for the first time since April, Bournemouth (W6, D2, L4) have continued to punch above their weight and occupy their highest-ever position (sixth) after round 12 in Premier League (PL) history.
Those two reversals – which saw over 1.5 first-half goals – were both by a 2-1 scoreline, meaning it’s three straight competitive games overall with the same score (either way).
The injury-time loss to Manchester United was the ‘Cherries’ first competitive loss at home this season (W6, D2, L1), with eight of the nine seeing at least one first-half goal.
One place and four points above the hosts sit Arsenal, who are amid a mini slump themselves after drawing three league games on the bounce following a run of seven consecutive wins. Nevertheless the ‘Gunners’ remain unbeaten in 16 competitive games (W12, D4).
With two draws already this month, Arsenal will be wary of their November ‘jinx’ which has seen them collect an average of 1.62 points per league game in November since 1996 (when Arsène Wenger took over) – their lowest tally for any month.
Under new boss Unai Emery, Arsenal will also be concerned about their first-half performances that have seen them fail to lead at the break this season. Yet seven victories from drawing half-time positions is a league high.
Players to watch: Ryan Fraser (BOU) is the PL assist ‘king’ this season with six, while Arsenal’s Bernd Leno will be searching for his first-ever PL clean sheet as a starter (five matches).
Stat attack: Bournemouth have gone on to win all their PL games (five) in which they were leading at half-time.
Nine of Bournemouth’s PL games this season have produced over 2.5 goals.
One more away win will see Arsenal equal their four from the whole of last season.
Arsenal subs have scored seven PL goals this season – a league high.
Will not play
Smith A.
(Knee Injury)
Mavropanos K.
(Groin Injury)
Monreal N.
(Thigh Injury)
Welbeck D.
(Ankle Injury)
Questionable
Koscielny L.
(Calf Injury)
Lichtsteiner S.
(Thigh Injury)
Match Information
Referee: Pawson C. (Eng),
Venue: Vitality Stadium (Bournemouth)
LIVE STREAMING BOURNEMOUTH VS ARSENAL 25.11.2018
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