Arsenal set up an FA Cup fifth-round tie at League One Portsmouth after holding on for a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Bournemouth.
The Gunners did not waste any time getting into their stride at the Vitality Stadium as Bukayo Saka (5) finished an excellent team move to give his side the lead before Eddie Nketiah (26), making his first start since returning from a loan spell at Leeds, doubled Mikel Arteta’s side’s advantage.
After the break, Bournemouth searched for a way back into the game with Jack Simpson and Dan Gosling both going close, and they were eventually handed a lifeline when substitute Sam Surridge scored in the fourth minute of eight additional minutes.
Eddie Howe’s side did have one final opportunity to force a replay, but Lewis Cook’s drive failed to test goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez as the Gunners held on to extend their unbeaten run to six matches in all competitions.
The Gunners now have a trip to Fratton Park to look forward to next month, while Bournemouth, who are 18th in the Premier League, must turn their attention to securing their top-flight status.
With Sky Sports report
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