Before Rice's spectacular curling strike from beyond the box made sure second-place Arsenal closed their home campaign on a high note, Mikel Arteta's team was flat and uninspired. Despite without top scorer Alexander Isak, Newcastle, who are still in a strong position to qualify for the Champions League, threatened in the first half, and the Gunners had to thank David Raya. Due to a groin ailment, the 23 Premier League goal scorer was not present.

However, third-place Newcastle got off to a quick start, forcing Raya to make deft stops to deny Bruno Guimaraes, Harvey Barnes, Dan Burn, and Sven Botman within the first 20 minutes. However, Rice's first-time goal from 20 yards out after Martin Odegaard's assist in the 55th minute altered the mood inside Emirates Stadium. Arsenal now has 71 points after the victory.