Manchester United slumped to seventh place in the Premier League after a lackluster 2-2 draw at Bournemouth on Saturday. Bruno Fernandes salvaged a point with two equalizers, but the visitors were fortunate not to lose after a dominant display by the Cherries.
Bournemouth deservedly took the lead through a clinical finish from Dominic Solanke in the 16th minute. Solanke’s goal reignited calls for his inclusion in the England squad for the summer Euros. United struggled to create chances and Bournemouth continued to threaten, with Luis Sinisterra and Milos Kerkez going close.
United finally drew level just before halftime thanks to a moment of brilliance from Fernandes. He reacted superbly to a bouncing ball, volleying it past Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto.
However, United’s joy was short-lived. Moments later, a defensive lapse allowed Justin Kluivert to put Bournemouth back in front with a well-placed shot. Kerkez then rattled the crossbar as United continued to wobble.
A lifeline appeared for United when a deflected shot struck Jefferson Lerma’s arm in the penalty area. Fernandes stepped up and calmly converted the penalty for his second goal of the match.
United pressed for a winner in the closing stages but were denied by a controversial VAR decision that overturned a late Bournemouth penalty award. Despite the late drama, the draw felt like a fair result based on the overall performance.
Manager Erik ten Hag was left frustrated by his team’s display. “We have to win our games and we have dropped too many unnecessary points,” he admitted. “We did not deserve more today. We have to do better.”
The result leaves United’s hopes of Champions League qualification hanging by a thread. They are now 10 points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa and face a battle to secure European football next season.
