Bournemouth held by 10-man Palace in blow to European hopes

Bournemouth missed a golden opportunity to close the gap on the Premier League’s top seven as they were held to a goalless draw by 10-man Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

The hosts played over half the match with a numerical disadvantage after Chris Richards was sent off in first-half stoppage time. However, Andoni Iraola’s side failed to capitalize, with the second half lacking any real goalmouth drama.

In a match reported by the BBC Sports, Richards, already on a booking for a foul on Dango Ouattara, was shown a second yellow for tugging Justin Kluivert’s shirt.

The decision sparked controversy, especially as referee Sam Barratt had earlier opted not to dismiss Bournemouth’s Alex Scott for a second bookable offence after a foul on Ismaila Sarr.

After the break, Bournemouth dominated possession but posed little threat, with Evanilson’s tame header from an Adam Smith cross their only notable chance.

The draw lifts the Cherries to 49 points — a Premier League club record — but they remain five points adrift of seventh-placed Aston Villa, who face Newcastle in Saturday’s late kick-off.

Bournemouth had more of the ball in the first half without truly testing Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson.

They were perhaps fortunate not to be reduced to 10 men themselves, as Scott appeared to clip Sarr from behind just 10 minutes before Richards’ dismissal.

Palace were also aggrieved when Tyler Adams, already booked for a foul on Eberechi Eze, escaped further punishment following a clash with Will Hughes early in the second half.

Iraola responded by replacing Scott with Lewis Cook at half-time and later subbing off Adams for Marcus Tavernier.

Despite increased pressure in the closing stages, Bournemouth failed to break down a disciplined Palace defence.

Their best opportunity came early on, when Dean Huijsen met Antoine Semenyo’s delivery, only to miscue his effort under pressure.

Depending on other results, Bournemouth could end the weekend eight points off the top seven, although an eighth-place finish could still secure European qualification.

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