CHERRIES defeated Wolves 2-1 at Dean Court this evening. Here, we take a look at the crucial aspects.

1 – PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE

Through the five-game winless run, Eddie Howe always maintained that if his team kept doing the right things then eventually, they would get their reward. That thought proved right on the money. Another good performance, allied to a largely solid defensive effort and a star turn from Yann Kermorgant, gave Cherries what they deserved.

2 – STRIKE PARTNERSHIP IMPROVING

As a partnership, Kermorgant and Callum Wilson look as good as they have done since the latter arrived at the club in the summer. Kermorgant will take plenty of plaudits for his brace and rightly so but Wilson put in a real shift and helped the Frenchman out wherever possible. Both were a massive handful for Wolves.

3 – GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT

Before tonight, defender Elliott Ward had not played a game since August 12 due to a serious knee injury. His cameo late on was the result of an awful lot of hard work and perseverance. It was the cherry on top of the cake, if you’ll pardon the pun.

MOAN OF THE MATCH

Too much tension. The match was on a knife edge throughout. These Cherries players know how to put everyone through it. Happily for the home fans, it was worth it.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH

More like moments really, but the Steve Fletcher Stand repeatedly chanting Yann Kermorgant’s name was a classy and well-deserved touch. Following recent off-pitch difficulties, it must have given former Charlton man a boost.