ANDONI Iraola divulged how AFC Bournemouth tried to go man-to-man in a bid to stifle Luton Town.

Marcus Tavernier scored the opener but Cherries could not hold on at Kenilworth Road, eventually going down to a 2-1 loss following goals from Jordan Clark and Carlton Morris.

In the return fixture Antoine Semenyo caused havoc down Luton’s left-side, scoring twice as Cherries came from three goals behind to win 4-3 at Vitality Stadium.

However, at the start of Saturday’s game, Semenyo was deployed on Bournemouth’s left-flank, attacking the right-hand of Luton’s defence.

On the opposite flank Tavernier could be seen tucking in as a makeshift wing-back, with Iraola stating that the intention was to stifle Luton’s left-wing-back, Alfie Doughty.

In the first half Cherries enjoyed multiple opportunities on the counter, but were unable to convert the chances into shots on target.

Tavernier’s 52nd minute strike was Cherries’ first and only accurate effort of the game.

Shortly after, Tavernier’s afternoon came to an abrupt end due to a hamstring issue, whilst Semenyo also requested a substitution due to fatigue.

After the pair were removed Cherries struggled with their attacking shape, with leading goalscorer Dominic Solanke operating on the wing for the final 20 minutes.

Iraola told the Daily Echo: “It was more focused on if they go man-to-man, sometimes we go man-to- man against them.

“We have to match up because they have two wing-backs - one of the wingers has to track back and I prefer Tavs tracking back.

“And I considered they were more dangerous crossing from the left with Doughty, that is someone who is every time is crossing balls.

“I think Tavs did really well defensively and offensively.

“Also Ant was doing really well on the opposite side.

“I think both can play both sides.”