An impossible dream realised in the Vitality staging European football, and the Europa League is becoming an oasis for Bournemouth. No wins yet in the Premier League but in beating Sturm Graz to follow victory at Real Sociedad should ease the domestic pressures on Marco Rose. A pair of Brazilians secured club history on the gala night, Evanilson’s first-half header followed by Rayan’s close-range drive, a clincher arriving as the Austrian visitors had pushed hard for an equaliser. Álvaro Rodríguez’s injury-time penalty furthered the celebrations.
Flag day at the Vitality. Elvis Presley’s high baritone and Andy Williams’ tenor replacing the usual dance hits on the public address system marked a different type of occasion. Bournemouth have come a long way. “Minus 17 to European dreams” read a banner in the Steve Fletcher stand, marking the journey from the foot of the Football League to a model, continental club.
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