A. Semenyo Key Contribution Helps AFC Bournemouth a Thrilling Draw at Stamford Bridge.

Action shot from the thrilling Premier League encounter

The forward completed the full game while his counterpart was withdrawn after the hour mark.

Match Summary

  • Two assists from Semenyo's long throw-ins led to strikes by Brooks and Kluivert.

  • Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez found the net for Chelsea in a frantic first half.

  • The second half's clearest chance fell to Fernandez, who failed to convert.

Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, reportedly close to a big-money transfer, was at the heart of the action, providing two assists and conceding a penalty in a dramatic 2-2 stalemate against Chelsea.

The 25-year-old, who is in deep discussions over a potential multi-million pound move, nonetheless featured for his current side. He utilized his long throw expertise to great effect, creating scoring opportunities that were finished by Brooks and Kluivert.

Brooks opened the scoring just six minutes in, converting from close quarters after a dangerous long throw from Semenyo.

Chelsea responded and then took the lead after Semenyo fouled Estevao Willian inside the penalty area. The match official awarded a penalty after a review by the Video Assistant Referee system.

Palmer calmly dispatched the penalty, placing it perfectly into the corner even though the keeper dove the right way. Enzo Fernandez then extended Chelsea's lead, firing a superb shot into the top corner after 23 minutes.

Bournemouth hit back almost immediately, as another Semenyo long throw was turned in by Justin Kluivert from close range just four minutes later.

The visitors finished the first period on top, forcing Sanchez into several saves from their 14 first-half efforts.

The home side's boss reshuffled his team at the break, bringing on James and Neto for Acheampong and Garnacho.

Early in the second half, a handball appeal against Malo Gusto was dismissed by the VAR official. Petrovic, once of Chelsea, made a fantastic stop to keep out Estevao's powerful drive from the edge of the area.

The best chance of the second half fell to Enzo Fernandez in the 77th minute, but he blazed his shot over the bar from inside the box.

Moments earlier, Palmer was substituted for Joao Pedro, a change that was met with disapproval from some home supporters. Although they enjoyed more possession late on, the hosts were unable to craft a winning goal.

In injury time, Bournemouth substitute Enes Unal volleyed over from 12 yards out after a cross from Amine Adli.

This draw extends Chelsea's poor run to only one win in their previous seven Premier League matches. For Bournemouth, the point does little to improve their own form, as they remain without a win in ten games.

Wayne Hall
Wayne Hall

Wildlife biologist and conservationist with over a decade of experience studying sloths in Central and South America.