Everton vs Bournemouth FA Cup Report

Scorers: Semenyo 23’ (P), Jebbison 43’

Bournemouth reached the FA Cup fifth round with a composed 2-0 victory over Everton at Goodison Park, as Antoine Semenyo once again proved to be the Toffees’ tormentor.

The Cherries, who had already completed a league double over Everton this season, added a cup triumph to their tally, leaving David Moyes’ side frustrated despite striking the woodwork three times.

Semenyo Sets the Tone with First-Half Penalty

Everton came into the game on the back of three straight wins under Moyes, and the home crowd was in an optimistic mood. The Toffees made only one change to their lineup, signalling the importance of the fixture.

However, Bournemouth, sensing an opportunity to make history, approached the game with confidence.

After a quiet opening 20 minutes, the visitors broke the deadlock when Semenyo—who had inspired Bournemouth’s comeback victory at Goodison in August—raced past James Tarkowski and was brought down inside the box.

Despite protests from the Everton captain, referee John Brooks immediately pointed to the spot and, with no VAR in place, the decision stood.

Jordan Pickford guessed the right direction, but Semenyo’s penalty was struck with too much power, rippling the net and giving Bournemouth the lead in front of the Everton supporters.

Jebbison Doubles Bournemouth’s Lead Before the Break

Everton looked shaky in defence, and Bournemouth nearly extended their lead soon after when Semenyo was played through by Daniel Jebbison. His shot from a tight angle was well blocked by Jarrad Branthwaite, keeping Everton in the game.

However, Bournemouth weren’t to be denied for long. Just before half-time, Tarkowski’s clearance fell straight to Marcus Tavernier, who advanced to the edge of the area and unleashed a shot that was blocked.

The rebound fell kindly for Jebbison, whose initial effort was stopped by Pickford, but the ball ricocheted off the Bournemouth forward and rolled into the net, making it 2-0.

For Jebbison, it was a moment of redemption in a turbulent season. Recalled from a disappointing loan spell at Watford, he has now scored in both the third and fourth rounds of the FA Cup, proving his worth to Andoni Iraola’s side.

Everton Hit the Woodwork Three Times but Fail to Break Through

Everton increased their tempo after the break but struggled to find a way past a disciplined Bournemouth defence. Their best moments came after January signing Charley Alcaraz entered the fray, adding much-needed creativity to their attack.

Alcaraz nearly made an instant impact, winning a free-kick and then drilling it against the post in the 70th minute.

The near-miss lifted the home crowd, and Everton continued to push forward. Jake O’Brien’s header clipped the outside of the post, while Jack Harrison’s curling cross evaded everyone and struck the woodwork again.

Despite Everton’s late surge, Bournemouth remained a threat on the counter. Justin Kluivert was denied by Pickford, while Branthwaite nearly turned a clearance into his own net, slicing the ball onto the crossbar in a nervy moment for the hosts.

With time running out, Moyes made a desperate tactical shift, sending defender Michael Keane up front as an emergency striker for the final five minutes. However, Bournemouth’s backline held firm, securing their clean sheet and booking their place in the fifth round.

What the Result Means for Both Teams

For Bournemouth, this victory keeps alive their dreams of winning a first major trophy in the club’s history. Andoni Iraola’s side have shown resilience throughout the competition and will now aim to continue their run.

For Everton, this was a bitterly disappointing result, especially given their improved league form under Moyes. The Toffees’ inability to take their chances was costly, and they will need to regroup quickly ahead of the daunting prospect of a Merseyside derby against Liverpool on Wednesday.

Final Thoughts

Bournemouth’s well-executed game plan, combined with Everton’s wastefulness in front of goal, proved to be the difference. Semenyo and Jebbison were clinical when it mattered, while Everton were left ruining their misfortune after hitting the woodwork three times.

As the FA Cup journey continues for the Cherries, Everton must now shift focus to their league campaign and hope to bounce back from this frustrating exit.

For more info on this game’s outcome, you may also visit:
Fixtures – Emirates FA Cup – Competitions | The Football Association