Antoine Semenyo's Pivotal Role Earns AFC Bournemouth a Dramatic 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.
Despite being on the verge of a lucrative switch, the 25-year-old attacker started for his club. His distinctive long throw-ins proved a potent weapon, leading to goals for teammates David Brooks and Justin Kluivert.
Brooks opened the scoring just six minutes in, converting from close quarters after a dangerous long throw from Semenyo.
The home side equalized and went ahead following a foul by Semenyo on Estevao in the box. The match official awarded a penalty after a review by the Video Assistant Referee system.
Palmer calmly dispatched the penalty, placing it perfectly into the corner even though the keeper dove the right way. 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. Former Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic then produced an excellent save to deny Estevao from distance.
Fernandez had the clearest opportunity to win it late on, but he skied his effort from a promising position inside the penalty area.
Moments earlier, Palmer was substituted for Joao Pedro, a change that was met with disapproval from some home supporters. 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. For Bournemouth, the point does little to improve their own form, as they remain without a win in ten games.
