Bournemouth vs Everton Report

Scorer: Brooks 77’

Bournemouth continued their impressive run of form with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Everton at the Vitality Stadium.

David Brooks’ sublime second-half volley secured the win, extending the Cherries’ unbeaten run to a club-record eight Premier League matches and leaving Everton with just one victory in their last 11 league outings.

Everton’s Vitality Woes Persist

The Toffees have never won a Premier League match at the Vitality Stadium, and their struggles in the first half suggested that record was unlikely to change.

Bournemouth, riding high under Andoni Iraola, nearly capitalised on their set-piece prowess within the opening 10 minutes. Dean Huijsen’s flicked header from a long throw set up Dango Ouattara, but the winger’s sharp effort was expertly saved by Jordan Pickford.

Pickford, a consistent performer for Everton, was called into action again when Antoine Semenyo swept Ryan Christie’s cross into the net, only for the goal to be disallowed for offside.

Despite the setback, Bournemouth maintained their attacking intent, with Evanilson firing just wide and Justin Kluivert being denied by a quick-thinking Pickford, who smothered the Dutchman’s attempted chip.

As halftime approached, Everton’s fortunes took another hit when Armando Broja, starting in attack, was forced off with an injury, leaving Sean Dyche’s already toothless side even less threatening.

Cherries Dominate Despite Stubborn Everton Defence

Sean Dyche responded with a double substitution at the break, but Everton’s changes failed to stem Bournemouth’s dominance. Early in the second half, Pickford continued to frustrate the hosts with fine saves, denying low drives from both Semenyo and Ouattara.

As time wore on, Bournemouth struggled to create clear-cut chances. Everton’s defensive pairing of James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite began to find their rhythm, and the visitors grew more comfortable in absorbing the Cherries’ pressure.

However, just as frustration began to grow among the home crowd, Bournemouth found the breakthrough.

Brooks’ Stunning Volley Secures Victory

The decisive moment came in the 77th minute. Milos Kerkez, a standout performer at full-back, delivered an inch-perfect cross from the left flank. Substitute David Brooks met it with a stunning first-time volley, guiding the ball into the far corner just beyond Branthwaite’s reach.

The Welshman’s second goal of the season was a moment of brilliance that ultimately proved enough to secure the three points.

Bournemouth saw out the game with composure, restricting Everton to speculative efforts as the visitors failed to register a single shot on target in the second half. This marked Everton’s fifth consecutive away match without a goal, highlighting their ongoing struggles on the road.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

Bournemouth remain firmly in the hunt for European football, sitting in the top seven after their fifth consecutive home win against Everton. Iraola’s side will look to maintain their momentum as they continue to challenge for a historic European spot.

For Everton, the situation grows increasingly dire. Dyche must quickly address his team’s lack of creativity and cutting edge, especially on the road, as they edge closer to the relegation zone.

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Bournemouth v Everton, 2024/25 | Premier League