HARRY Arter played down his talismanic contribution to Cherries' victory over Everton, preferring instead to laud what he believed was his side’s most complete performance this season.

Arter’s vibrant, dynamic display set the tone for an afternoon on which Eddie Howe’s side operated at a ferocious pace to overwhelm their shell-shocked visitors.

A rapt home crowd certainly appreciated their midfielder’s indefatigable efforts, cheering each thumping tackle louder than the last one – and airing a chant favourably comparing their star man with Everton playmaker Ross Barkley.

Arter told the Daily Echo: “The most important thing is the team getting three points. I try to play my part as much as I can and I was pleased to have a positive impact on the game.

“That’s a typical Bournemouth performance. Last year, and the year we were promoted, starting fast was something we always looked to do.

“Coming off two defeats we felt we had a point to prove. And I felt the way we started, and then throughout the game, we proved that we wanted to put things right.”

Arter agreed the contest was the first occasion this season in which Cherries reached their high standards across a full 90 minutes.

But the 26-year-old did admit to experiencing some butterflies late in the contest, given his team had not scored the second goal their dominance deserved.

“That was our most complete performance this season,” said Arter. “Against Palace (when Cherries drew 1-1) we started really well but we didn’t manage to do it for 90 minutes.

“West Brom (a 1-0 win) was pretty similar. But today I felt – and I’m sure Everton would feel – we deservedly won the game.

“There's always a few nerves set in when you haven’t killed it off.

“Everton have some unbelievable players so you have to respect that. They were second in the league before today and hadn’t lost a game. So we had to give them respect."

By beating the Merseysiders, Cherries recorded back-to-back top-flight home wins for only the second time in club history. Coming in the immediate wake of the previous week’s defeat to Manchester City and a subsequent EFL Cup exit at the hands of Preston, Arter felt his team’s quick return to form should be viewed in a positive light.

He said: “That’s the bigger picture you have to look at. Going to Manchester City it’s always going to be difficult to pick up a victory, no matter what sort of a run you’re on.

“We looked at this as a game that would be tough and the most important thing was the win. But second to that is the performance and we can take plenty from both today.”

So intense was his focus on inspiring his team to victory against Everton, the Republic of Ireland international wasn’t able to take a moment to enjoy the acclaim of Cherries fans.

“When you’re playing you try to ignore it,” said Arter. “I have a job to do and that’s all I did. I was pleased. It’s nice to hear the fans being positive about you. But the most important thing is the end result and the three points.”