Bournemouth continued its impressive late-season form in the Premier League, stretching its unbeaten run to eight matches with a 1-1 draw against Sunderland on Saturday.
The visitors had to come from behind after Sunderland’s Eliezer Mayenda opened the scoring in the first half. The forward capitalised on a defensive lapse to put the hosts ahead, raising hopes of a crucial victory in their battle for survival.
Bournemouth, however, showed resilience and equalised in the 63rd minute through substitute Evanilson. The Brazilian striker made an immediate impact after coming off the bench, converting Marcus Tavernier’s cross with his shoulder to level the contest. The goal underlined Bournemouth’s attacking depth and determination as they continue to push for European qualification.
Despite both sides creating opportunities, neither could find a decisive breakthrough in the closing stages. Sunderland’s defence held firm against Bournemouth’s late pressure, while the visitors ensured they did not concede again, securing a valuable point away from home.
The result leaves Bournemouth six points adrift of fifth-placed Chelsea, a position that could potentially secure Champions League football next season. With momentum on their side, the Cherries remain firmly in contention for a European spot.
For Sunderland, the draw was a missed opportunity to climb further up the table, though Mayenda’s strike offered encouragement for their attacking prospects.
Wolves beat Villa 2-0
Wolverhampton Wanderers avoided an unwanted Premier League record with a spirited 2-0 victory over local rivals Aston Villa in the West Midlands derby. Bottom of the table heading into the clash, Wolves ensured they will not finish the season as the worst side in Premier League history, surpassing Derby County’s infamous 11-point tally from 2007-08 by moving to 13 points after 29 games.
The breakthrough came in the 61st minute when Wolves registered their first shot on target. Jackson Tchatchoua delivered a precise cross from the right, Adam Armstrong’s deft touch set up Joao Gomes, who calmly slotted home from 15 metres to score his first goal of the season. Despite Villa’s superior league position, the home side looked determined and disciplined, limiting their opponents to few clear chances.
Aston Villa, sitting third in the table with 51 points from 28 matches, struggled to impose themselves in difficult, rain-soaked conditions. Pau Torres missed a golden opportunity in the first half, heading wide from a corner when unmarked. In stoppage time, Amadou Onana’s effort was cleared off the line by Yerson Mosquera, denying Villa an equaliser. As the visitors pressed forward, Wolves capitalised on the space left behind. Joao Gomes saw a second attempt blocked, but substitute Rodrigo Gomes pounced on the rebound, drilling the ball into the net from close range to seal the win.
The result marked Wolves’ second victory of the season and their fourth clean sheet, a performance that belied their league position. For Villa, it was another setback in their push for Champions League qualification, having won only three of their last ten league games. The dropped points leave them vulnerable as teams below continue to close the gap. Wolves, meanwhile, celebrated a morale-boosting derby triumph that keeps them clear of an unwanted record.
EPL: Bournemouth hold Sunderland 1-1 draw
BOURNEMOUTH, FEB 28 (AGENCIES):
