Evanilson’s close-range brace earned Bournemouth a 2-2 draw at West Ham United, as the Cherries kept their hopes of European football next season alive.
Both teams came into the match in poor form and desperate for a win, with Bournemouth now winless in six league games. Despite this, Andoni Iraola’s side finished the day just five points behind sixth-placed Newcastle United, although they’ve now played one more game than other teams vying for a European spot.
After a scrappy start under the bright sun, Bournemouth broke the deadlock seven minutes before halftime, benefiting from a mistake by West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, who spilled Antoine Semenyo’s low shot straight to Evanilson. The Brazilian striker made no mistake, scoring from five yards out. The goal was reviewed by VAR, with Evanilson deemed to be onside, and Bournemouth went into the break with the lead.
In the second half, West Ham manager Graham Potter made several changes, and they paid off as his side fought back. Substitute Niclas Fullkrug equalized just after the hour, rising high to head in James Ward-Prowse’s corner. Not long after, the returning Mohammed Kudus displayed some neat footwork to set up Jarrod Bowen, who scored another brilliant header to put West Ham in front.
The Hammers thought they had done enough to secure three much-needed points, but in the dying moments, Evanilson, unmarked at the far post, capitalized on Dean Huijsen’s header and slotted in to make it 2-2. The goal was once again checked by VAR for offside, but it stood, earning Bournemouth a point.
