Andoni Iraola lauded his team’s outstanding performance as Bournemouth triumphed over their striker shortage to secure a convincing 5-1 victory against West Brom in the FA Cup third round.
Despite facing the absence of injured forwards Evanilson and Enes Unal, Iraola’s restructured attack excelled, with Dango Ouattara scoring twice and wingers Justin Kluivert and Antoine Semenyo also hitting the back of the net.
Young striker Daniel Jebbison, recently recalled from a loan spell at Watford, came off the bench to score the fifth goal.
“The forwards really stepped up, most of them found the back of the net, so I am very pleased,” Iraola commented. “Dango played exceptionally well, he has experience as a number nine in his national team. We have versatile players who can adapt to different positions when needed.”
Despite conceding an early goal from Caleb Taylor, Kluivert equalized for Bournemouth in the 27th minute with a finish from a David Brooks cross. Kluivert then assisted Ouattara with a well-placed pass, leading to another goal just before halftime.
Brooks continued to impress with a stunning run and pass for Ouattara’s second goal before Semenyo and Jebbison added to the scoreline in the second half.
Max Aarons, on the verge of a move to Valencia, still played the first half and was commended by Iraola for his professionalism. Bournemouth also announced the loan move of Philip Billing to Napoli until the end of the season.
West Brom interim boss Chris Brunt expressed disappointment at the heavy defeat, acknowledging Bournemouth’s quality. The club is expected to appoint Raphael Wicky as their new manager next week.
“If that’s the case, then my job here is done,” Brunt said. “I wish the new manager all the best.”
