A. Semenyo Crucial Contribution Earns AFC Bournemouth a Dramatic 2-2 Draw at Chelsea.
Semenyo played the entire match as Palmer was substituted in the second half.
Match Summary
Antoine Semenyo's long throws created goals for David Brooks and Justin Kluivert.
Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez found the net for Chelsea in a frantic first half.
Enzo Fernandez missed the best opportunity of a goalless second period.
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.
Cole Palmer stepped up and converted the penalty, finding the corner despite the goalkeeper guessing correctly. Fernandez made it 2-1 with a stunning strike into the top corner midway through the first half.
Kluivert leveled the scores again shortly after, tapping home from another precise long throw delivered by Semenyo.
Chelsea created further opportunities, but Bournemouth ended the first half strongly, testing goalkeeper Robert Sanchez with numerous attempts.
At halftime, Chelsea's manager made two changes, introducing captain Reece James and Pedro Neto for Josh Acheampong and Alejandro Garnacho.
A potential handball incident involving Gusto was quickly reviewed and not given by the video officials. Petrovic, once of Chelsea, made a fantastic stop to keep out Estevao's powerful drive from the edge of the area.
Fernandez had the clearest opportunity to win it late on, but he skied his effort from a promising position inside the penalty area.
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.