Yeovil Town’s FA Cup journey continues as Championship outfit AFC Bournemouth visit Huish Park on Saturday evening (5:45pm).
It’s been a campaign to remember so far in the cup for the Glovers, with a dramatic shootout victory over local rivals Weymouth, followed up by a thumping off Yate Town, and capped off by another Football League scalp with a 1-0 victory over Stevenage.
AFC Bournemouth pose the Glovers’ toughest challenge yet, sitting top of the Championship and boasting the likes of Premier League winner Gary Cahill within their ranks. Saturday’s clash sets up to be another cup classic!
Darren Sarll’s thoughts
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Sarll said: “They’re a very good side, they’ve got some excellent players, with a mix of both young and experienced.
“It’s been enjoyable watching their footage this week. I always think there are teams that look coached, and Bournemouth are definitely a well coached team.
“Scott (Parker) seems to have thrown a lot of the young players in who have come through the football club and they’re rewarding him with excellent performances.”
Team news
In his pre-match press conference, despite not going into specifics, Sarll confirmed Yeovil had a number of positive COVID-19 cases this week.
Other injuries included Matt Worthington & Morgan Williams after being substituted against Torquay, but both are in contention to play this weekend.
A foot in the opposition camp
Since taking the reins in the summer, former England International Scott Parker has ignited a promotion charge on the South-Coast. The Cherries sit top of the Championship as they look to return to the Premier League at the second time of asking.
However, this FA Cup fixture comes in the midst of a COVID outbreak for Bournemouth, with their game on Monday against Peterborough postponed.
It is also likely that a number of star men, including Chelsea academy graduate Dominic Solanke will be rested for this cup tie.
Have we met before
During Yeovil’s stay in the Football League, AFC Bournemouth proved regular opponents, with the Glovers drawing 1-1 in our last meeting at Huish Park.
Delving deeper into the history books, AFC Bournemouth, then known as Bournemouth & Boscombe, were Yeovil’s first ever giant killing in 1924! In front a 5,000 strong crowd, the Football League Cherries were no match, with Town flying to a 3-0 lead within 13 minutes.
The visitors did fight back, netting just before the break to create a tense second period. Despite an onslaught from the South Coast side, Bournemouth only found the back of the net once in the second half as the Glovers advanced in the Cup.
Tickets
Due to police request, tickets will only be available until midday on match-day. The ticket office will be open from 10am for any in-person purchases, whilst online sales can be made by clicking HERE.
