Semenyo's swift strike floors Fulham to halt Cherries' winless run

It falls to the squeezed middle to breathe life into the conclusion of the 2024-25 Premier League season.

- John Brewin

The battle for Europe is some way off being decided. And thanks to an early goal and a dogged defensive display, Bournemouth were able to relaunch their candidacy.

Having ransacked champions-elect Liverpool last week, Fulham should fear nobody but inconsistencies prevent being a full contender for the top five. Victory in Dorset could have placed them in the Justin Rose position of being within striking distance should the rest falter. Instead, Bournemouth leapfrogged the Londoners into eighth. After a first league win in seven, Andoni Iraola's team have six games left to rescue what had seemed the lost dream of playing continental football for the first time in club history.

Bournemouth fans were singing of a European tour in February but may now wonder if their heroes will remain at the club next season. Those getting their kicks from transfer tittle-tattle will know Dean Huijsen is linked to just about everyone, including Real Madrid. Morning gossip saw Justin Kluivert, still missing through injury, linked with Atletico Madrid.