Overview of AFC BOURNEMOUTH 3-0 AC MILAN - Cherries Prove WHO Is The Finest To Wear The Red & Black - Reaction
Craig, host of Up the Cherries in All Departments, reacts to Bournemouth’s stunning 3-0 win over AC Milan with huge excitement and pride. He calls it a historic, statement-making result against one of Europe’s most decorated clubs, and argues Bournemouth were the better side even before Milan’s red card. The episode is part celebration, part breakdown of the key moments, and part look-ahead to Bournemouth’s promising Europa League campaign.
Match Reaction and Main Talking Points
A famous Bournemouth night
- Craig describes the win as “absolutely incredible” and one of the club’s greatest-ever European nights.
- He stresses that AC Milan’s reputation still carries weight, making the result even more impressive.
- The tone throughout is euphoric, with Bournemouth framed as a club that has arrived on the European stage.
The red card debate
- Craig strongly argues that Mike Maignan’s red card was completely justified.
- He rejects claims that it “changed the game,” insisting Bournemouth were already the better team.
- His view: once a goalkeeper puts hands in an opponent’s face and pushes, the sending-off is clear.
Penalty decisions and goals
- Bournemouth’s first goal came after a corner and a handball incident that Craig admits was slightly fortunate, though he believes the header was likely going in anyway.
- Justin Kluivert calmly converted the resulting penalty.
- Marcus Tavernier also scored from the spot after another penalty was awarded.
- The third goal came late from a superb free kick, which Craig describes as “sublime.”
Standout Players and Performances
Ben Gannon Doak: man of the match
- Craig names Ben Gannon Doak as his man of the match.
- He praises:
- relentless work rate
- constant pressing and harassment of Milan’s defense
- strong game management
- 90 minutes of high-level intensity
- He compares Gannon Doak’s style more to Matt Ritchie’s grit and hard work than Antoine Semenyo’s explosiveness.
Other notable mentions
- Justin Kluivert: composed from the penalty spot.
- Marcus Tavernier: also very assured from the spot.
- Bournemouth’s midfield and press: Craig says the team controlled the game for long periods.
- He also gives credit to a young opposing goalkeeper for making some decent saves despite the scoreline.
European Campaign Outlook
Strong position in the group/league phase
- Bournemouth are now three wins from three in Europe.
- Craig says the team sits third in the standings with a strong goal difference and only one goal conceded.
- He believes Bournemouth have already navigated the toughest European tests and can now push for top spot.
Confidence for upcoming fixtures
- He expresses no fear about future matches, including:
- Sparta Prague
- Lille
- Celta Vigo
- Viktoria Plzeň
- Hapoel Be’er Sheva
- He notes the political sensitivity around the Hapoel Be’er Sheva fixture but says Bournemouth should focus on winning on the pitch.
Final Takeaway
This is a passionate, celebratory reaction to one of Bournemouth’s most memorable European victories. Craig sees the result as proof that the Cherries belong on this stage, praises the team’s intensity and mentality, and singles out Ben Gannon Doak as the standout performer. The overall message is clear: Bournemouth are not just competing in Europe — they are making a serious statement.