Bournemouth go home with all three points to the south coast thanks to their talisman’s injury-time header. Bournemouth endured a tough start to the game after Newcastle began on the front foot but looked threatening on the counter. As the second half took proceedings, they began to dominate play and ask Newcastle more questions. They were rewarded for their resilience with a goal at injury time that sealed all three points for Edie Howe’s side. Here are the player ratings for Bournemouth.
Asmir Begovic (8):
Made a stunning save to deny Matt Ritchie’s pile driving effort from long range that was destined to hit the back of the net. Did well in corners to come out and grasp the ball.
Simon Francis (5):
Bournemouth’s captain had a tough evening. He lacked composure on the ball and was pressurized by Atsu on a number of occasions. Gave the ball away cheaply at times.
Steve Cook (7):
The defender’s hard work paid off as he scored the winner to ensure all three points.
Nathan Ake (8):
Although not the tallest on the pitch, his jumping was exquisite. Headed away many long ball thrown into the Bournemouth penalty area. Did extremely well to challenge against Joselu’s physicality and aerial threat.
Charlie Daniels (6):
Not the best of games for the left-back. Was defensively sound but was quite sloppy on the ball.
Jordan Ibe (5):
Hardly had any impact on the game. Was found to be confused when on the ball as he lacked the cutting edge in the final third.
Andrew Surman (6):
It was not the brightest of games for the centre midfielder although he did well to support his defence in crunch situations.
Harry Arter (7):
An industrious effort from Harry Arter. Broke down the play a number of occasions and did well to pass the ball into the channels for his frontrunners.
Marc Pugh (7):
Looked quite sharp today with his movements and dribbling. Was unfortunate to his attempt on goal be saved that hit the woodwork and bounced back out.
Callum Wilson (5):
Clearly lacks the match sharpness that he showed many a time last season. Had a glorious opportunity in a one on one situation to open the scoring but lacked the finish and composure.
Joshua King (6):
Lacked the service from his partner Wilson on a number of occasions. Took up some good position but was left frustrated.
SUBS:
Adam Smith (6):
Showed good intent to keep up the momentum by playing passes forwards.
Jermain Defoe (6):
Kept up the pressure by holding up play and bringing his teammates into action. Won the corner that ultimately led to the goal for Bournemouth.
