There have been a number of games during the opening months of the 2018/19 Premier League campaign where AFC Bournemouth have come away from matches with all three points despite not being at their best.
Cherries manager Eddie Howe has said as much in post-match comments in the past, with the one perhaps eyebrow-raising comment coming after the 4-0 away win over Watford. After that result, the biggest away victory AFC Bournemouth have recorded in the top flight of English football, Howe said his side had “played better than that”.
Unfortunately for the Cherries, results can also go against you, even when you are at your best.
Against Manchester United at Dean Court, one such performance came. The first half an hour of the game AFC Bournemouth were simply fantastic, Jose Mourinho’s side could not create any meaningful possession let alone a chance at goal. Meanwhile, AFC Bournemouth had numerous chances from Ryan Fraser and Junior Stanislas.
When Callum Wilson struck, it was no more than AFC Bournemouth deserved, but unfortunately, the Cherries were pegged back before half time. Anthony Martial with the goal.
The second half came and Manchester United were on the ascendency. But it took until the 92nd minute for Marcus Rashford to score the winning goal and send the travelling supporters delirious with numerous fans on the pitch and at least one into a Police van for a short diversion before their trip home.
AFC Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe told afcb.co.uk…
“It’s a tough one for us today. I think a lot of the aspects of our game were really good, especially during the opening period. We passed the ball well and there was really good intensity to our play.
“We were disappointed at half-time that we weren’t winning and we felt that we deserved to be leading by more than one. We knew the second half was going to be a different game.
“Manchester United changed things and made substitutions but I was pleased with my players attitudes to the game and they gave everything to the match.
“It was one of the best first-half performances I’ve seen us have in the Premier League since being promoted. I can’t fault anyone in terms of effort.
Your say…
billythekid wrote…
Thought a draw would have been a fair result over the two halves.
We had that early chance in the first half before we scored.
The defence defended well when it looked like they were going to take the lead.
Had a feeling they may just snatch the winner, we had a brief flurry in the second half, but they dominated it.
Enjoyed the game, far more entertaining than the last league came at DC. Just a pity we were pipped at the post in the end. – Join the conversation, click here.
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