Bournemouth have firmly planted themselves in the conversation for European qualification after a thoroughly professional 3. 0 demolition of a hapless...
Bournemouth have firmly planted themselves in the conversation for European qualification after a thoroughly professional 3. 0 demolition of a hapless Crystal Palace at the Vitality Stadium. The victory, which lifts the Cherries to sixth place on the Premier League log, was a display of clinical finishing and resolute defending that left the visiting side with no answers. From the first whistle, the home side took the lion's share of possession and made their intentions clear, pressing high and forcing errors from the Palace backline. The first goal arrived when a crisp passing move cut through the opposition defence, allowing the forward to slot home with composure. The second half saw Bournemouth double their advantage with a strike from distance that nestled in the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. The third goal, a tap in from a well worked corner, put the game beyond any doubt and sent the home fans into a frenzy. In the scheme of things, this result is massive for Bournemouth. �s aspirations, as they now sit firmly in the mix for a spot in European competition next season. Crystal Palace, on the other hand, will need to give a good account of themselves in the coming weeks if they are to avoid being dragged into a relegation scrap. At the end of the day, the powers that be at Bournemouth will be delighted with the discipline and hunger shown by their squad. The Nigerian international Dominic Solanke, though not on the scoresheet, put in a tireless shift up front and was a constant nuisance to the Palace centre backs with his hold up play and movement. His performance will surely catch the eye of the Super Eagles coaching staff ahead of the next international break. Back home in Lagos, the atmosphere at the popular viewing centres in Surulere and Ikeja was electric as fans cheered every Bournemouth attack. Many supporters clad in replica jerseys were seen celebrating with bottled drinks as the goals flew in, with some declaring that Solanke. �s hard work deserves a starting shirt for Nigeria. In Abuja, crowds gathered at the Wuse Zone 4 hubs analysed the game with typical passion, insisting that this kind of form from the Cherries could see them qualify for the Europa League, a feat that would bring immense pride to Nigerian football followers everywhere.
