Back Of The Net - The AFC Bournemouth Podcast

Sunderland burst out of the blocks this season and have been one of the Premier League’s biggest stories. Energy, intensity, momentum — they’ve had it all. But are there signs that the pace is catching up with them? In this preview, we look ahead to Bournemouth vs Sunderland and ask whether the Black Cats are starting to run out of steam after their incredible start — and whether Bournemouth can take advantage at exactly the right moment - as they hunt down a European spot. We break down: ◼️ Recent form and underlying numbers ◼️ Squad rotation and signs of tired legs ◼️ Key tactical battles ◼️ Where Bournemouth can hurt them ◼️ Score predictions ◼️ This could be a massive swing game in the European race. Bournemouth Heart Club: https://www.afcbpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Bournemouth-Heart-Club-HEARTSMART-A5.pdf Download the FREE Fanalysis app on the App Store now! ➵ iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/fanalysis/id6749045838 ➵ Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=co.uk.fanalysis Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

AFC Bournemouth are redeveloping the Vitality Stadium — bringing more premium hospitality, expanded media facilities, and a "step forward" in the club’s long-term growth. But for some supporters, that progress comes at a personal cost. In this video, we discuss the difficult trade-off at the heart of the stadium plans: growth vs loyalty. With some fans needing to relocate — or potentially pay more to keep their seat — is this simply the reality of modern football economics? Or should match-going supporters be better protected when big decisions are made? We look at: ▫️ Why hospitality revenue is so important for a club of Bournemouth’s size ▫️ The financial realities behind stadium expansion ▫️ The emotional impact on supporters being asked to move ▫️ Whether this was truly unavoidable — or could it have been handled differently There’s no easy answer here. Progress often demands compromise, but football is nothing without its fans. Download the FREE Fanalysis app on the App Store now! ➵ iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/fanalysis/id6749045838 ➵ Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=co.uk.fanalysis Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

West Ham are under pressure… so can Bournemouth capitalise? With questions surrounding form, confidence, and performances at the London Stadium, this could be a huge opportunity for the Cherries. But are West Ham really there for the taking given their form has recently shown an upturn? Also, Simon Jordan on Talksport claimed that David Sullivan's 16 year tenure of the club has been "a success" and that Hammers fans are crazy for expecting more - we weigh in to the debate. We're at the Queens Park to break down the matchup, key battles, and what Andoni Iraola's side must do to take advantage. Visit the QP at 482 Holdenhurst Rd, Bournemouth, BH8 9AR. Check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/queensparkpub - or give them a call on 01202 301747 or 07876213400. It's open from noon on matchday! Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bournemouth claimed a huge win over Everton as the new signings continue to make an immediate impact. Confidence is growing, performances are improving, and the squad suddenly feels full of energy and belief. In this video, we break down the key moments, standout players, and why these fresh additions might be changing the trajectory of the season. Are the Cherries building something special? Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Everton’s first season in their new stadium could be about more than just fresh surroundings — it might even end with European qualification. But standing in their way - a BUOYANT AFC Bournemouth. We preview tonight's HUGE game at the Hill Dickinson stadium, where we look at: ▪️ Bournemouth’s recent performances and game-plan ▪️ Where this match could be won or lost ▪️ Predicted teams and injury latest A huge test, a big story, and plenty on the line. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

AFC Bournemouth may have “only” drawn with Aston Villa on the scoreboard, but on the pitch this felt like a performance that said far more. In this match review, we break down a dominant display from the Cherries as Andoni Iraola’s side controlled large spells of the game, pressed relentlessly, and limited a strong Villa team to very little. From the structure out of possession to the confidence in build-up, this was another example of Bournemouth looking well-drilled, fearless, and tactically mature. With rumours and discussions growing around Iraola’s future, performances like this only strengthen the argument that the club should be moving quickly to secure his long-term commitment. This wasn’t a smash-and-grab point — it was a statement showing how far this team has come. We’ll analyse: ▪️ Why Bournemouth looked the sharper side throughout ▪️ How Iraola’s tactics nullified Villa’s threat ▪️ Key individual performances, including Rayan (obviously!) ▪️ What this result says about the manager’s future and the direction of the club Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Can Andoni Iraola finally crack the Unai Emery code? His Bournemouth side are in sparkling form but are preparing to face an Aston Villa team led by the one manager Iraola has never beaten. Our preview breaks down: ▪️ The tactical battle between Andoni Iraola and Unai Emery ▪️ Villa’s strengths — and where they can be exposed ▪️ Whether form can finally trump history ▪️ Key players who could decide the game Is this the moment the narrative shifts… or does the hoodoo continue? 👇 Get involved in the comments 🔔 Subscribe for post-match reaction, analysis & Cherries content 🍒 Up the Cherries AFC Bournemouth's matchday logistics, courtesy of Alexander Smith from the Echo: https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/25824589.vitality-stadium-changes-afc-bournemouth-begin-enabling-works/ Also on AFCB.co.uk at: https://www.afcb.co.uk/news/2026/february/05/information--enabling-works-begin-at-vitality-stadium-/ Thomas Newton - Proud Cherries: https://youtube.com/shorts/50OmBoDBDcY?feature=share Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A big win away at Wolves, twinned with a relatively calm but purposeful transfer window, signalled that AFC Bournemouth might be "back". The Cherries fanbase are cautiously starting to believing that things might be clicking again, and with the table looking a lot more healthier, could the win at Molineux be the springboard for Cherries to have a second half of the season that supersedes the first? In this video, we break down Bournemouth’s victory in the Black Country, we analyse the showing of debutant Rayan, plus we ponder the performances from other star performers including Eli Junior Kroupi and Alex Scott. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

AFC Bournemouth turn their attention to Wolves next, but there’s more to this fixture than just three points. In this video, we question why Rob Edwards made the bold decision to leave promotion-chasing Middlesbrough for a relegation battle at Wolves, and what that tells us about the scale of the challenge facing them right now. From a Cherries perspective, the timing couldn’t be more interesting. Bournemouth come into the game with momentum, confidence, and growing excitement around the squad — not least the possibility of a first appearance for exciting new Brazilian signing Rayan. Could this be the moment fans finally get a glimpse of what the club believes could be a future star? Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a dramatic night on the South Coast, Andoni Iraola’s side executed a disciplined, fearless game plan and were rewarded with a last-gasp winner that stunned Arne Slot’s Liverpool. From defensive organisation to relentless intensity out of possession, Bournemouth nullified one of the league’s most dangerous sides and struck when it mattered most. In this video, we break down: • How Bournemouth disrupted Liverpool’s rhythm • The tactical tweaks that frustrated Slot’s side • Why this performance says so much about Iraola • What went wrong for Liverpool • And how Bournemouth found a winner at the death! Sam and Tom break-down a famous night at Vitality Stadium. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amid Bournemouth’s growing injury crisis, Liverpool arrive on the South Coast for what promises to be a serious test for Andoni Iraola’s side. Arne Slot’s Liverpool, much like Bournemouth, burst out of the blocks earlier in the season. However, a high summer turnover of players soon caught up with them, leading to a drop-off in form that saw their grip on the Premier League title slip away. Bournemouth’s own campaign has been patchy, but recent resilience and tactical clarity has improved the mood. But with Liverpool in town, the question is simple: can Iraola’s side rise above the injuries and spring a shock this weekend? We're at the Queens Park Hotel to break down the key battles, tactical themes and ponder what this match will REALLY tell us about Bournemouth’s progress as they face one of their biggest tests yet. Visit the QP at 482 Holdenhurst Rd, Bournemouth, BH8 9AR. Check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/queensparkpub - or give them a call on 01202 301747 or 07876213400. It's open from noon on matchday! Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Everyone wants to recruit like Brighton - smart data-led signings, huge resale value, and a clear long-term plan. AFC Bournemouth are looking to replicate their model, but how far off are they? In this video, we break down Bournemouth’s ambition to follow the Brighton recruitment model, but given our the evidence that high player turnover seems to result in a culture of impermanence and uncertainty, we ponder the type of signings Cherries might need in order to prevail - both this season, but also long term. Plus, a look forward to Monday night's huge game at the Amex where Cherries and Seagulls face off in a clash between two sides that have perhaps been underwhelming this season - is that fair? We're are at the Queens Park, insde The Court Room. Visit at 482 Holdenhurst Rd, Bournemouth, BH8 9AR. Check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/queensparkpub - or give them a call on 01202 301747 or 07876213400 Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At long last, Eddie Howe finally got one over Andoni Iraola on Saturday, in an absorbing clash at St James' Park which saw Newcastle United progress in the FA Cup. All things considered, Bournemouth were brilliant and brave, and but for a few individual lapses could have saw us advance to the Fourth Round, but the Magpies recently have a steeliness which is seeing them get over the line, regardless of performances. Sam and Tom examine a whirlwind afternoon in the North East! Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

AFC Bournemouth's recent record against Newcastle United has been remarkable, not losing in six games - some Mags even think the sequence of results is even conspiratorial! However the recent form of Eddie Howe's side has improved recently, rising to sixth in the Premier League, and with a keenness to ensure his side retain their momentum, the former Cherries gaffa will be wanting to end the Geordies sorry run with victory over Andoni Iraola's side. Sam and Tom are at the Queens Park as we look forward to Saturday's FA Cup Third Round tie. Visit the QP at 482 Holdenhurst Rd, Bournemouth, BH8 9AR. Check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/queensparkpub - or give them a call on 01202 301747 or 07876213400 Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bournemouth downed Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night in a dramatic 3-2 win which saw Antoine Semenyo score in the dying minutes to secure Cherries a vital win, simultaneously giving the fans a parting gift ahead of his now-confirmed move to Manchester City. Sam and Tom go over the ninety minutes against Spurs before discussing why Antoine was such a success at Bournemouth, as well as pondering just how he will perform under Pep Guardiola. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After Saturday's loss to Arsenal, Cherries are back under the lights against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night - a team who we feel are "gettable". Despite Bournemouth's terrible run, recent games have been better, however a spanner has recently been thrown into the works with the announcement of ANOTHER injury! Justin Kluivert's omission is bad timing for a side which is already threadbare, and with Thomas Frank looking to rejuvenate his own out-of-sorts Spurs side - Cherries fans' optimism levels for this match-up might now be somewhat diluted... Sam and Tom are at the New Inn to preview a massive game for the Cherries! Visit the New Inn on Facebook at: https://facebook.com/thenewinnpoole - they are located at 222 Wimborne Rd, Poole, BH15 2EL. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Saturday, AFC Bournemouth gave the champions elect Arsenal a bit of a scare on a freezing cold night at Dean Court - in a game which saw Cherries take the lead, lose control, concede three, but then give them a scare with a Kroupi wonderstrike. Alas, despite a last minute flurry, truncated by a referee keen to get back into the warm - it wasn’t to be for the Chez - with midfield maestro Declan Rice stealing the show. Sam, Tom and Neil are at the New Inn in Poole to dissect an absorbing game under the lights. Visit the New Inn on Facebook at: https://facebook.com/thenewinnpoole - they are located at 222 Wimborne Rd, Poole, BH15 2EL. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Antoine Semenyo is set to be involved against Arsenal in a week-long Vitality Stadium swan-song, with Bournemouth's boss Andoni Iraola suggesting that the departing star will be utilised in Cherries next TWO games against the Gunners and Spurs. With Manchester City anticipating his arrival at the Etihad, the challenge will have been set by Pep Guardiola for Antoine to cause carnage on the South Coast before making the moving up North, this potentially having a major impact on the title race. The Gunners have been quality this season, but Boscombe - after doing the double over them last season, will want to continue the siege mentality - in one of the season's BIGGEST encounters so far! Sam and Tom are the QP to preview a HUGE game! The QP is open from lunchtime on match-day, pints from £4, outdoor heaters, match day menu, children's play area, the £150 raffle (grab a ticket with every drink purchased). Come back afterwards for the raffle draw at 8pm! Visit at 482 Holdenhurst Rd, Bournemouth, BH8 9AR. Check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/queensparkpub - or give them a call on 01202 301747 or 07876213400 Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It felt like Bournemouth were BACK on Tuesday night with an improved performance against an under-par Chelsea. After Cherries' dismal showing at Brentford, fans were concerned about a potentially difficult fixture against Chelsea... However, with two more injuries coming to the fore by the way of Cook and Christie - players rallied and delivered another siege mentality performance, especially defensively - securing a huge point at Stamford Bridge, a result which led to the sacking of manager Enzo Maresca. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Together - Anything Is Possible" - but ARE we together? On Saturday, Bournemouth were TROUNCED by Brentford 4-1 at the GTech Community Stadium in a showing which raises the same old questions amongst Cherries fans. Sam and Tom dissect the abysmal performance before contemplating the bigger picture - a club that are seeking togetherness whilst deploying transfer policy that creates an environment that appears so temporary. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to all our platforms. If you’re enjoying this show, you can help support us by buying us a coffee at ⁠https://www.afcbpodcast.com/coffee⁠ – we really appreciate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices