“His mistake cost us, but we’re still with him” – Reece James speaks on costly mistake made by Chelsea star in Bournemouth draw
Chelsea secured a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge thanks to a spectacular free-kick from Reece James in stoppage time. The Blues, who dominated the first half thanks to Cole Palmer’s superb opener but were unable to hold onto their lead, felt like they had lost the game despite the heroics of the late stages.
After goals from Antoine Semenyo and Justin Kluivert in the second half swung the game in Bournemouth’s favor, James’s individual skill saved a point.
Post-match, James turned the spotlight on his teammate Romeo Lavia, praising the 21-year-old midfielder despite his role in Bournemouth’s equaliser. Lavia, making his first Premier League start since December, was dispossessed in the build-up to Moises Caicedo conceding a penalty.
“Lavia is an amazing player. He’s had some injury problems as well. Whenever he’s playing with us, he helps us excel in the way we want to play,” James told TNT Sport.
While Lavia’s mistake led to Kluivert’s penalty equaliser, the Belgian midfielder impressed overall, slotting seamlessly into the deep-lying midfield role. His quality on and off the ball reminded fans why he is considered one of the Premier League’s brightest young talents, alongside Levi Colwill.