Everton vs Bournemouth Preview

• Score draw
• Semenyo to score or assist

Introduction: A Critical Encounter at Goodison Park

As the Premier League season gains momentum, Everton and Bournemouth are set to clash at Goodison Park in a match that could significantly influence both teams’ early-season fortunes.

Everton, fresh off a morale-boosting win in the Carabao Cup, will be eager to secure their first league victory, while Bournemouth look to continue their unbeaten start to the season. This encounter is poised to be a crucial test for both sides.

Everton’s Quest for First League Win: Building on Cup Success

Everton enter this match on the back of a confidence-boosting 3-0 victory over Doncaster in the Carabao Cup. This win was much needed after two demoralising Premier League defeats, in which they conceded seven goals without reply.

The Toffees will be desperate to carry this momentum into their league campaign, aiming for their first Premier League win of the season against Bournemouth.

History is on Everton’s side, as they have won six of the seven Premier League head-to-heads (H2Hs) against Bournemouth at Goodison Park, losing just once. Additionally, Everton’s first home league win of last season also came against the Cherries, with a convincing 3-0 victory in October.

A repeat of that result would not only boost Everton’s position in the league but also end a troubling personal record for manager Sean Dyche, who has lost all five of his games in charge of Everton in the month of August.

His Premier League win rate in August stands at a meagre 12.5%, the worst of any manager in the competition who has overseen ten or more games.

Bournemouth’s Steady Start: Aiming for Consistency

Bournemouth will make their final league visit to Goodison Park before Everton’s move to their new stadium next season. The Cherries have had a steady start to the new Premier League campaign, drawing both of their opening games 1-1.

A late goal salvaged a point in their opener against Nottingham Forest, while a late strike from Newcastle denied them a win in their second match.

Should Bournemouth draw their third game 1-1, they would be the first team since West Brom in the 2004/05 season to open with three consecutive 1-1 draws.

Under the guidance of Andoni Iraola, Bournemouth enjoyed their highest-ever Premier League points tally last season, amassing 48 points.

However, to take the next step forward, improving their away form will be crucial. Including this season’s draw at Forest, Bournemouth has won just two of their last 11 away league matches (D3, L6), managing to score a goal or less in each of the last six.

Players to Watch: Key Influencers on the Pitch

Iliman Ndiaye (Everton): New recruit Iliman Ndiaye made an immediate impact by scoring his first goal for Everton on his full debut during their midweek Carabao Cup match.

His goal-scoring form could be pivotal, especially considering that he has only experienced one defeat in his last 22 matches in which he has scored (W19, D2).

Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth): With Dominic Solanke’s departure, Antoine Semenyo has stepped up for Bournemouth, contributing to both of their league goals this season with one goal and one assist.

Last season, he ranked second in goal contributions at the club, and his involvement will be crucial as Bournemouth looks to maintain their unbeaten start.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Match for Both Teams

As Everton and Bournemouth prepare to face off at Goodison Park, the outcome of this match could set the tone for both teams’ seasons.

Everton are eager to capitalise on their recent cup success and secure their first league win, while Bournemouth aims to build on their steady start and improve their away form. With both teams having much to prove, this encounter promises to be an intriguing battle.

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Everton v Bournemouth, 2024/25 | Premier League