For the first time in two years, A.F.C Bournemouth started a Premier League game in the relegation zone, and that is where they would remain after a turgid afternoon at Vitality Stadium on Sunday. The Cherries were battered 3-0 by a resurgent Watford side, who escaped the bottom three for the first time this season. Despite being the more experienced Premier League manager, Eddie Howe could learn a thing or two from escape artist Pearson, in Bournemouth’s bid to retain their top-flight status.
Youthful goalkeeper Mark Travers was at fault for the opening goal after he was pressurised heavily by the visitors, forcing him to rush his pass out from the back, which subsequently fell to a Watford man. Whilst trying to play out from the back is an admirable quality that has served Bournemouth well during their stay in the top-flight, it cost them dearly when it mattered most against Watford. The Cherries do not need to boot the ball long aimlessly but varying their build-up play by occasionally attempting to bypass a press would have prevented conceding in this instance.
Bournemouth veteran Steve Cook’s post-game comments were particularly damning saying “there are things not right all across the pitch,” but he should perhaps look at himself before blaming any of his teammates.
One of the first things Pearson did upon arriving at Watford was to make the Hornets more resolute defensively, and that is precisely what Howe must achieve. The Cherries are not scoring frequently enough to win games, finding the net twice in their past eight matches, but they are shooting themselves in the foot defensively by being far too open. In their previous two games, both against relegation rivals, the south coast side have conceded seven goals. As they are not finding the back of the net themselves, Howe’s side must start by shutting out the opposition in an attempt to snatch draws.
In their past 11 games, Bournemouth have collected a woeful four points, but their situation is still salvageable. Pearson has transformed Watford, collecting more points since he arrived five games ago than they had from their opening 17 fixtures. If Howe can take inspiration from the Hornet’s situation and temporarily adopt his methods, then Bournemouth still have a shot at Premier League survival.
