Sheffield United 5-3 AFC Bournemouth; Cherries Slashed by Blades

Another game, another disappointing result for Paul Groves' men. The Cherries fell victims to a 5-3 defeat at the hands of Sheffield United on Saturday, September 1st. Though taking the lead, Bournemouth fell behind to 3-1, and even though they further pulled it back to 3-2, and 4-3 respectively, the Blades confirmed the win when they scored from a penalty in the last minute. The result wasn't too bad on paper, but in all honestly they were ultimately beaten by a superior team on the day.

The game came following transfer deadline day, where Groves made further additions to his squad with the captures of midfielder Lorenzo Davids and Goalkeeper Benjamin Buchel. Neither of these two featured in the game, though Richard Hughes, Josh McQuoid and Wes Fogden all made returns from injuries. Though the scoreline would suggest a brave away performance by Bournemouth, Cherries fans had a different story to tell. Comments by fans such as "outclassed" and "boys against men" prove the real difference in quality between the two sides at Bramall Lane.

The result leaves us in 18th place, having only gained 3 points from our first 4 matches. Before the season, most fans would have probably taken a return of at least 7 points from the first 4 games, but it is without question that 3 points is far below what is expected of this team. With one of the most expensively assembled squads in the division, luxury coaches such as sports scientists, and a new training ground, the results have to improve in the near future if Groves hopes to continue being Bournemouth manager.

I apologize for the short blog, but I didn't go to the game and couldn't find anyone there that was willing to offer their views, but I am going to Yeovil on saturday, so next time it will be better!