AFC Bournemouth re-entered the English Premier League after missing two seasons following their successful 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
The Southern England club have made their comeback to the English top-flight for the second time around, following their relegation to the EFL Championship back in the 2019-20 season.
Match highlights
After a harrowing start of 45 minutes, the Cherries were having a hard time to score a goal. Nottingham Forest forward Sam Surridge hit the ball outside the crossbar during the 32nd minute which provided a perfect chance for Forest to dominate the first half.
Bournemouth took 83 minutes to break free from the stagnant situation and made significant progress. Kieffer Moore produced a stunning free-kick that would allow the ball to sneak past under Forest goalkeeper Brice Samba.
Steve Cooper’s team would have been the winner if a late equalizer was on the cards which could have set them to advance to the next round and had better odds in kèo bóng đá. However, the stakes are not high for Forest as with Bournemouth who desire for an automatic promotion.
Moore is the player of the moment
In an interview after the match, Moore stated “I’m at a loss for words, when I arrived here I only had one plan and then I had to face a hurdle right away. However, it is my dream to come in here and I’m grateful that it happened.”
“My first thought after recuperating from my surgical procedure due to the fractures I incurred was to question when I would be able to return. Fortunately, I was given a chance to go back as soon as possible.”
“I’m relieved that the worst is past and I can now move on. It is difficult for me to put into words what I have experienced these past few years. It has been my dream to play in the Premier League for so long and I’m grateful that I get to experience it.”
Back in the EPL
Under the direction of former coach Jonathan Woodgate, the Cherries were only a few inches away from acquiring promotion during the last season of the EFL Championship. Finishing at the sixth position, they went against Brentford during the playoffs.
Even though they won the home match 1-0, Bournemouth was still defeated by Thomas Frank’s team with a score of 3-1 during the second leg on the road to the finals. In the end, Brentford won and played at Wembley Stadium.
After the decisive match, the supporters of Bournemouth have celebrated the comeback of the second-tier club to the Premier League. The Vitality Stadium was filled with the Cherries fans on Tuesday night and they passionately ran across the field when the final whistle was blown. The fans shouted celebratory words along with the team members.
An incredible performance
Former player Marc Pugh also celebrated the victory of the team. He said, “It was a dream come true for any players in the second division. To be a part of the best football league in the world and to play with the best footballers in the world is such an unreal feeling.”
“For me, there is nothing more rewarding than playing in the Premier League and watching your goal scored in the best game of the season.”
“What can I say? It was the best performance of the season and I am rooting for the fans who have waited for so long for the club to return. It has been a topsy-turvy ride but it was worth seeing them playing again in the Premier League,” he added.
Conclusion
Bournemouth will be joined by Championship titleholders Fulham, who were promoted to the Premier League on April 19 following their 3-0 victory over Preston. Fulham claimed the title on the Monday match following their 7-0 victory over Luton Town.
