In a thrilling encounter, relegation-battling Ipswich Town clinched their first Premier League victory of 2025, derailing Bournemouth’s aspirations for European football in the process.
The match’s early tones were set when Bournemouth’s Alex Scott almost broke the deadlock, only for Ipswich defender Dara O’Shea to make a crucial goal-line clearance. This set the stage for what would be a night of high drama and intensity at the Vitality Stadium.
Ipswich’s breakthrough came courtesy of Wales international Nathan Broadhead. Capitalising on Julio Enciso’s deft run, Broadhead deftly navigated past defender Dean Huijsen before slotting the ball through the legs of Bournemouth’s goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga, marking his first Premier League goal.
This triumph marked Ipswich’s first league win since their 2-0 victory over Chelsea on December 30, positioning them as the last side across England’s top four divisions to notch a league win in the calendar year.
Bournemouth had their opportunities; moments into the second half, Scott unleashed a powerful 20-yard strike, only to be denied by Ipswich’s astute goalkeeper Alex Palmer with a magnificent save.
Ipswich then doubled their advantage on the hour mark, with Liam Delap finding the back of the net for the 11th time this season after a skilful setup by Conor Townsend.
The Cherries believed they had been handed a lifeline when referee Rob Jones awarded a penalty, but upon VAR review, the decision was revised to a free-kick, with Axel Tuanzebe’s foul on Antoine Semenyo adjudged to have occurred outside the penalty area.
Determined Bournemouth did pull a goal back in the 67th minute through Evanilson, who pounced quickest after Palmer’s initial save from Lewis Cook’s long-range attempt.
Despite dominant possession in the closing stages, Bournemouth were unable to capitalise, and Ipswich’s defence, marshalled by the resolute Dara O’Shea, held firm. The visitors claimed only their fourth league victory of the season, leaving the home side to rue their missed opportunities.
Bournemouth’s Evanilson, celebrating his fifth goal in eight matches across all competitions, could not inspire a comeback as his side’s European ambitions took a dent. The Cherries, who last tasted league victory in February against Southampton, find themselves on a five-match winless streak, now standing 10th in the Premier League.
Missing key striker Justin Kluivert, Bournemouth struggled to find their rhythm, watching Ipswich seize the initiative. With 22 points relinquished from winning positions this season, Ipswich’s nerve was a welcome reprieve. Delap’s strike appeared to have put them comfortably ahead, but after Evanilson’s response, a tense finish ensued, Ipswich’s fans anxiously watching errors potentially unravel their lead.
Dango Ouattara and Semenyo’s near-misses highlighted Bournemouth’s frustration, especially when, as time expired, Ouattara failed to capitalise on a corner with Arrizabalaga upfield, heading over the bar.
Promotion under Kieran McKenna saw Ipswich rise from League One to the Premier League in consecutive years, yet the Premier League has been challenging. A rare triumph lifts Ipswich to 18th, still nine points from safety. A clash with Wolves at Portman Road looms as a crucial fixture in their battle for survival in the top flight.
READ NEXT: