Bournemouth and West Ham United shared the points in a 2-2 draw at the Vitality Stadium, a match in which Max Kilman conceded a crucial penalty.
Callum Wilson struck twice in the opening half to put West Ham firmly in control, but the visitors couldn’t see the game out. Bournemouth hit back, with Marcus Tavernier converting from the spot after Kilman handled inside the box.
Enes Unal later added a second for the home side, completing the comeback and ensuring the Cherries took something from the contest.
Tony Gale weighs in on Kilman’s handball
The decisive moment came in the 67th minute when Evanilson broke into the West Ham penalty area and shaped to shoot. Kilman went to ground in an attempt to win the ball, but the Bournemouth forward sidestepped him, leaving the defender’s arm exposed. The ball struck Kilman’s hand, leaving VAR official Michael Oliver with little reason to overturn the referee’s decision. Bournemouth converted the penalty, and Sky Sports co-commentator Tony Gale felt the call was clear-cut.
“He’s meant to do that. He’s definitely put his hand out,” Gale said. “It’s the right decision.”
Kilman’s place in doubt ahead of Liverpool clash
It was a night Kilman will want to forget, with the defender struggling to cope with Bournemouth’s sharp movement and pace. West Ham now face a wounded Liverpool side reeling from a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest, and Arne Slot’s attacking players will no doubt target any weaknesses in the Hammers’ back line.
Nuno Espírito Santo may respond by switching to a back four, potentially opting for Jean-Clair Todibo alongside Igor Julio. If Konstantinos Mavropanos proves his fitness in training this week, he could also be considered for a starting role against the Reds.