Bournemouth claimed their first Premier League victory of the season as Marcus Tavernier and Evanilson scored in a 2-0 win over ten-man Sunderland.
The result lifted the Cherries out of the relegation zone and gave Marco Rose his first league win in English football, while Sunderland’s difficult domestic campaign continued.
Both clubs started the day in the bottom three despite winning their opening two Europa League matches. But defensive mistakes left the visitors chasing the game from the outset.
Kevin Danso endured a particularly costly opening 17 minutes, playing a part in Bournemouth’s breakthrough before being sent off.
Evanilson outmuscled the former Tottenham defender in the sixth minute and delivered a cross for Tavernier, who headed into an unguarded net to register his fourth goal of the season.
Eleven minutes later, Danso was beaten by Evanilson again.
As the defender fell, he dragged down the striker on the edge of the penalty area, prompting referee Craig Pawson to show a straight red card for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs prevented Bournemouth from extending their advantage before the interval, twice saving from Brazilian winger Rayan.
Adam Smith also wasted a good opportunity from one of the rebounds.
However, another Sunderland error gifted the hosts their second goal three minutes after the restart.
Omar Alderete underhit a back pass to Roefs, allowing Evanilson to intercept, round the goalkeeper and roll the ball into the net.
Bournemouth finished with 29 attempts, while Sunderland managed just three and failed to test Djordje Petrovic.
The Black Cats remain without an away league win this season and have not won in the competition since beating Fulham on 30 August.
Tavernier helps Bournemouth build momentum
Tavernier continues to provide an attacking spark for Bournemouth. Their leading scorer has now struck four times this season, with three of those goals opening the scoring.
His latest contribution helped turn a promising performance into a much-needed victory after last week’s heavy defeat at Chelsea.
Although Sunderland’s defensive errors made the task easier, Bournemouth still took advantage through Evanilson’s strength and persistence.
The win arrives at a useful moment for Rose’s side.
A Europa League meeting with AC Milan comes before Premier League fixtures against Manchester United, Aston Villa and Leeds United.
With Tavernier and Evanilson making decisive contributions, Bournemouth have something to build on heading into that demanding schedule.
Sunderland struggle to rediscover last season’s form
Sunderland’s European success has yet to translate into consistent league performances, raising questions about how they are managing the additional demands.
They have lost both Premier League matches immediately following Europa League outings, although the previous defeat came in an eight-goal contest against leaders Manchester City.
Their early schedule has also included meetings with champions Arsenal and an in-form Brighton side.
Even so, the contrast with last season is stark.
After seven games of their first campaign back in the top flight, Sunderland had collected 11 points. At the same stage this term, they have four points and five defeats.
Danso’s early dismissal severely limited their chances here, but the visitors offered little attacking threat and were fortunate Bournemouth did not add to their tally.
Regis Le Bris now faces the task of restoring the defensive discipline and confidence that underpinned Sunderland’s impressive previous campaign.
