A. Semenyo's Key Role Earns AFC Bournemouth a Dramatic 2-2 Draw at Stamford Bridge.
Semenyo played the entire match as Palmer was substituted in the second half.
Key Moments
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.
Despite being on the verge of a lucrative switch, the 25-year-old attacker started for his club. He utilized his long throw expertise to great effect, creating scoring opportunities that were finished by Brooks and Kluivert.
The deadlock was broken early when Semenyo's first long throw caused havoc, allowing Brooks to score from close range in the sixth minute.
The home side equalized and went ahead following a foul by Semenyo on Estevao in the box. 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.
At halftime, Chelsea's manager made two changes, introducing captain Reece James and Pedro Neto for Josh Acheampong and Alejandro 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. Despite growing dominance in the latter stages, Chelsea could not find a decisive late 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. Bournemouth's winless streak now stretches to ten matches across all competitions.
