A. Semenyo Crucial Role Earns AFC Bournemouth a Chaotic 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.
The second half's clearest chance fell to Fernandez, who failed to convert.
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. Referee Sam Barrott pointed to the spot after consulting the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) monitor.
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.
Bournemouth hit back almost immediately, as another Semenyo long throw was turned in by Justin Kluivert from close range just four minutes later.
Chelsea created further opportunities, but Bournemouth ended the first half strongly, testing goalkeeper Robert Sanchez with numerous attempts.
The home side's boss reshuffled his team at the break, bringing on James and Neto for Acheampong and Garnacho.
Early in the second half, a handball appeal against Malo Gusto was dismissed by the VAR official. Petrovic, once of Chelsea, made a fantastic stop to keep out Estevao's powerful drive from the edge of the area.
The best chance of the second half fell to Enzo Fernandez in the 77th minute, but he blazed his shot over the bar from inside the box.
Palmer's withdrawal for Pedro was greeted by boos from a section of the home crowd as the manager's side sought control. 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.
The result means Chelsea have managed just one victory in their last seven league outings. For Bournemouth, the point does little to improve their own form, as they remain without a win in ten games.
