Anne Wong
What a night at the Vitality Stadium! Bournemouth clashed with Southampton in a thrilling south coast derby that had fans on the edge of their seats.
With first-half goals from Evanilson, Dango Ouattara, and Antoine Semenyo, Bournemouth took control early. Despite a spirited second-half effort from Southampton, the Cherries held on for a 3-1 victory.
Bournemouth Takes Early Control
Bournemouth secured their second Premier League win of the season by dominating their south coast rivals. The Vitality Stadium witnessed a spectacular performance as the Cherries ran rampant with a 3-1 victory over Southampton on Monday night.
Evanilson opened the scoring with a smart finish from a quick free-kick, followed by goals from Dango Ouattara and Antoine Semenyo. The win propelled Bournemouth up to 11th in the league, leaving newly-promoted Southampton still searching for their first victory of the season.
Southampton Starts Strong but Fades
Southampton started the game on the front foot, with Maxwel Cornet’s effort going just wide and Ryan Fraser testing Bournemouth’s keeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga.
However, Bournemouth seized the initiative with their first real chance. A quickly-taken free-kick saw Evanilson latch onto Marcus Tavernier’s precise pass and fire a volley past Aaron Ramsdale. The Saints were left reeling.
Double Trouble for the Saints
Bournemouth didn’t hold back after taking the lead.
Ten minutes later, a sweeping move involving Tavernier and Semenyo ended with Lewis Cook’s shot being deflected in by Dango Ouattara. Bournemouth led 2-0, and the home fans were in ecstasy.
The Cherries added a third before halftime. Semenyo danced through the Southampton defense and unleashed a powerful shot across Ramsdale into the corner. Bournemouth was cruising.
Saints Show Some Fight in the Second Half
Southampton’s manager, Russell Martin, made three changes at halftime, bringing on Joe Aribo, Ross Stewart, and Ben Brereton Diaz. The substitutions had an immediate impact.
Just five minutes into the second half, Taylor Harwood-Bellis scored his first Premier League goal, heading in from a Fabrice Fernandes cross. Southampton had a glimmer of hope.
Bournemouth Holds Firm
Despite Southampton’s improved showing, Bournemouth remained dangerous. Evanilson missed a chance to double his tally, and Ryan Christie shot wide.
In the dying moments, Luis Sinisterra’s effort was saved by Ramsdale, denying Bournemouth a fourth goal. Ultimately, the Cherries held on for a well-deserved 3-1 win.
Manager Reactions
Post-match, Russell Martin didn’t hold back in his criticism of his team’s first-half performance. He lamented, ‘I didn’t recognize our team. There was no aggression or courage.’ His disappointment was palpable.
Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, on the other hand, praised the team’s execution. ‘We knew we could catch them out with quick free-kicks. I’m buzzing for Evanilson; he’s going to be a problem for teams this season.’
Semenyo Shines
Antoine Semenyo continued his impressive form for Bournemouth, contributing to 10 goals in his last 20 Premier League appearances. His versatility and skill with both feet were on full display.
Bournemouth’s resounding 3-1 victory over Southampton showcased their attacking prowess and resilience. With standout performances and tactical brilliance, the Cherries secured a memorable win and vital points.
Southampton, however, will need to find answers quickly if they hope to climb out of the relegation zone. The season is still young, but challenges lie ahead for both teams.
