CHERRIES midfielder Emerson Hyndman enjoyed a triumphant return to his homeland as loan club Atlanta United progressed to the semi-finals of the US Open Cup.

The 23-year-old played a pivotal role as Frank De Boer’s side sealed a 2-0 victory over St Louis, setting up a last-four showdown with Orlando City.

Hyndman made an impact for the MLS champions by providing an assist in the 52nd minute.

After dispossessing a defender, the Dallas-born star picked out attacking midfielder Pity Martinez to slot home the opener.

And the clash was put to bed when Josef Martinez netted from the penalty spot for Atlanta, who earned a semi-final place for the first time in their history.

Cherries midfielder Hyndman joined Atlanta on loan last week with the American outfit having the option to make the deal permanent in December.

And the former Fulham man insisted he had already began to gel with his new team-mates.

Speaking ahead of his debut, Hyndman said: “Even just in recent training, you get to know the guys.

“The way they play is very technical and they like to move off each other. I’ve always liked that style of play, combining with people in and around the box, so I think it’ll be a good fit.”