Everton’s struggles at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium continued as AFC Bournemouth staged a clinical second-half comeback to secure a 2-1 victory. In a match defined by tactical shifts and individual errors, the Cherries capitalized on their numerical advantage after Jake O'Brien saw red for the hosts.
The Toffees started brightly and took the lead in the 42nd minute. After Rayan fouled Jarrad Branthwaite in the box, Iliman Ndiaye stepped up to coolly slot home the penalty. Everton looked in control at the interval, but Andoni Iraola’s side emerged with renewed vigor.
The visitors equalized in the 61st minute when Rayan made amends for his earlier error, heading home powerfully from a pinpoint Adrien Truffert cross. Just three minutes later, the turnaround was complete. A deep free-kick from Alex Scott was headed across goal by James Hill, allowing Amine Adli to nod the ball past Jordan Pickford.
Everton’s hopes of a rescue act were dashed in the 73rd minute when defender Jake O'Brien was shown a straight red card for a professional foul. Despite late pressure and the introduction of Beto, the 10-man Toffees could not find a way past Djordje Petrovic.
What It Means: Bournemouth climb to 11th in the table, effectively securing their mid-table safety. Everton remain in 8th but lose ground in the race for European qualification following their first home defeat since January.