Fernandes’ Heroics Not Enough: Manchester United Held to 2-2 Draw by Bournemouth

Bruno Fernandes’ double could only salvage a 2-2 draw for Manchester United at Bournemouth on Saturday.

Despite Fernandes’ heroics, United’s chances of Champions League football next season took another battering. The Cherries, who had previously secured a 3-0 win at Old Trafford, just missed out on a famous double.

The game was marked by controversy as a VAR review overturned a penalty decision in favor of Bournemouth. With only six games remaining, United remains 10 points adrift of Aston Villa and Tottenham in the race for a top-four finish.

The Red Devils have struggled, winning just once in their last seven Premier League matches, leaving Erik ten Hag’s future as United boss next season in doubt.

The defensive deficiencies that plagued United earlier in the season were once again exploited by Bournemouth.

French teenager Willy Kambwala had a moment to forget, slipping and allowing Dominic Solanke to score the opening goal.

However, United leveled the score against the run of play when Alejandro Garnacho’s deflected cross found Fernandes, who volleyed into the roof of the net.

Bournemouth regained the lead through Justin Kluivert, but United’s daring halftime substitution of Amad Diallo paid off. Diallo’s deflected shot led to a penalty, which Fernandes converted.

Bournemouth thought they had a late spot-kick, but VAR ruled it occurred just outside the box. The draw leaves Bournemouth in 12th place, eight points behind United in the European places.