New Headline: Sakura Strikers Thrash Roses in Premier Tournament Final
[BBC] [Getty Images] Bournemouth are becoming a tough nut to crack, particularly since the turn of the year. Perhaps uncharacteristically, the Cherries now have a real steel about them, resulting in plenty of clean sheets and an improved resilience that must be admired. For context, a summer clear out of the majority of their defensive unit provided an understandably shaky start defensively for Iraola's men.
After losing Kerkez, Zabarnyi, Huijsen and Kepa, it was no surprise the defensive side of the Cherries took some time to form itself again. Since then, the emergence of defender James Hill and improved performances from new goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic have certainly been a bonus. However, as is often the case, the balance has been a tricky one to find, as now, the Cherries are faltering at the top end of the pitch.
We used to think that Bournemouth's chaotic and offensive style always meant they'd score goals. Recently though, that hasn't been the case. It's probably obvious to say, but offensive numbers have been negatively impacted by the loss of that "Semenyo magic".
Plus, the absence of last season's regular goal threat, Justin Kluivert, has also cost us dear - so I guess it shouldn't come as a major surprise that the goals have dried up somewhat. Is there a little more to this though? Andoni Iraola is known for his high-energy attacking football, and that has always meant a significant drop-off in the second half of seasons.
Indeed, any side managed by Iraola has always gained fewer points in the second half of their respective campaigns. So, perhaps Andoni is purposely adapting his style to compete more effectively during the run-in perhaps? If that's the case, a couple more wins would do it...