Son calms nerves: Tottenham defeats Bournemouth

Tottenham are in front at the end: Son (right) and Richarlison celebrate a goal against the Cherries from Bournemouth.
Camera Sport via Getty Images

One thing was clear, Spurs wanted to get back on the road to success after the 4-2 defeat at Brighton so as not to lose touch with the top four. But the opposition did not arrive as a defensive underdog, as Bournemouth have recently fought back and clawed their way out of the cellar with 22 points in nine games, defeating defending champions Manchester United and Newcastle, among others, and most recently winning 3-0 over Fulham.

In a lively match amidst increasingly heavy rain, Tottenham took a 1-0 lead after winning the ball with Sarr's precise low shot (5th). The 21-year-old, who is in Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations squad, was forced to leave the field in tears as the first half progressed.

Three great chances at the AFC before half-time

The Cherries lived up to their reputation until half-time. Several dangerous shots shortly before the end of the period put Spurs' lead in jeopardy. Tavernier from a free kick that changed its direction (42), Kluivert who was standing alone in the penalty area and shot to the right (45 + 1), and striker Solanke after a deliberate pass from Sinistera with a shot that deflected off the crossbar (D). (45+3) Tottenham fans were left shaking.

AFC started similarly fast after the restart, with Solanke having a great headed chance (50th). With the visitors in control again, Richarlison was supposed to increase the score after a smart pass from Son, but he shot the ball wide of the goal on the right side (52). When Solanke finally failed to score from six meters after the hour mark, the pendulum gradually swung in favor of the home team.

The double strike brings the decision

Son, who had missed two good chances in the past, finally maintained control in the 70th minute and made the score 2-0 after a good pass from Lo Celso. Bournemouth suffered and conceded the third goal after ten minutes thanks to Richarlison's direct pass from Johnson's cross (80). At least the tireless visitors were able to score a well-deserved honorary goal through Scott in the 84th minute after a back pass from Tavernier. His second goal was disallowed shortly before the end (90+10) due to a simple offside situation.

It sold well but lost – AFC's successful run suffered a setback on New Year's Eve afternoon. However, Tottenham ended the calendar year after a long period of sub-optimal performance with a sense of accomplishment, with 39 points and fifth in the table. Top about Primus Liverpool (42, one game less) in opinion.

Things continue in the new year with matches in the FA Cup. Bournemouth hosts Queens Park Rangers on Saturday (4pm), and Tottenham hosts Burnley the day before (9pm).