ASMIR SAVES THE CHERRIES

Keeper stars to secure a key draw

- Chris Dunlavy

AN INSPIRED performance from Asmir Begovic earned Bournemouth a share of the spoils in this pulsating contest.

The Bosnian made three world-class saves, the last a remarkable leap to claw Angus MacDonald’s bicycle kick out of the bottom corner.

His heroics ensured the Cherries – who had taken the lead courtesy of a Junior Stanislas penalty and equalised through Dominic Solanke after Freddie Ladapo’s brace – extended their unbeaten run to four matches and clung to the tail of leaders Norwich City.

“When Asmir has needed to be there for us, he has been,” said Cherries boss Jason Tindall. “He’s pulled off some great saves for us today. Every team throughout the season will need to call on their keeper to win them points and he’s certainly done that for us today.”

Indeed he did. From the outset, Rotherham appeared sharper and more combative, completely overwhelming a Bournemouth midfield that looked leaden by comparison.

Jamie Lindsay, in particular, was outstanding, galloping from box to box as though engaged in a 90-minute bleep test.