AFC Bournemouth vs Arsenal preview

Sunday February 07, 2016 13:30pm – The Vitality Stadium

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AFC Bournemouth: WDWLD

Arsenal: DLDDW

Pre-season relegation favourites Bournemouth will continue their quest for Premier League survival on Sunday lunchtime when they welcome title contenders Arsenal to the South Coast.

Bournemouth heading towards safety

After winning just two of their first 15 games in the Barclays Premier League, Bournemouth have turned their season round and now look to be on course for survival. In their last 12 games, they have won five, drawn five and lost just two. As a result, they have risen to 15th place in the league with a total of 28 points, seven points ahead of the drop zone.

A win at the weekend could lift them towards the comfort of mid-table, but their tricky visitors from London may have other ideas. In their last league match, the Cherries had to come from behind to bag all three points away to Crystal Palace.

New signing Benik Afobe has already made a significant impact, grabbing three goals in his first four appearances.

Mini-slump for Gunners

Arsenal have not won any of their last four Premier League matches (D3, L1) and have slipped to fourth in the table as a result. Just a few weeks ago, the Gunners were leading the way, but they must now overcome a five point deficit to catch league-leaders Leicester City.

With Tottenham and Manchester City also above them, the North London side will be keen to get back to winning ways as soon as possible. Last time out, they were held at home (0-0) by Southampton, and they have only one of their last six away games.

Arsene Wenger will have to make do without Tomas Rosicky, Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere and for the trip to the South Coast.

Prediction

Bournemouth have become tough to beat at home, having lost just one of their last five at the Vitality Stadium. The Gunners have drawn three of their last five away matches.

The draw can be backed at 12/5 with Betfair