The late opportunity Bournemouth manager Gary O'Neil squandered on Saturday at the Vitality Stadium cost his team a victory over Manchester United.
Within nine minutes, United midfielder Casemiro scored the game's sole goal with a spectacular overhead shot from close range after Christian Eriksen's lofted ball was deflected off Marco Senesi's boot. Although not at their best, Erik ten Hag's team did a good job of defending to earn three points.
Although they were largely kept in check, Bournemouth did manage to create a few opportunities. Kieffer Moore, who had a clear shot on goal with five minutes left, had his attempt saved by David de Gea. O'Neil thinks his team deserved to win the game after Senesi's late shot from the edge of the box hit the roof of United's goal.
"We were good, we gave everything in a close game," O'Neil told Match of the Day after full-time.
"We were right in it and had a big chance at the end. It is Manchester United and we had players missing."
"We want to treat every game with respect and give a good account of ourselves. David Brooks earned his right to start today, it's not a friendly and we were very competitive. We deserved something from the game."
"For his first game back after such a long time David showed some great touches. Pre-season will be big for him but I'm delighted to have him back. He will be a good option for us next season."
"I am very proud of the group, it was a big mountain we had to climb. We achieved something that not many people thought we could."
In contrast to Liverpool, who only managed a draw against Aston Villa at home, United moved closer to earning a top-four finish with three points at the Vitality. With a win or three points against Chelsea at home on Thursday, the Reds can secure their spot in the Champions League for the following season.
Liverpool's Bobby Firmino's 89th minute strike salvaged a point against Aston Villa after falling behind in the first half. That leaves their hopes of participating in Europe elite club competition next campaign on the tread.
However, Erik Ten Hag has stated he is focused on what occurs at Old Trafford rather than rival's camp.
It's not important and I'm telling you for weeks, it's not about our opponents," he said.
"We are in the lead, it's only up to us. We have everything in our hands, we don't have to look behind and we have to make our performance and when we do it, there's nothing to do with any other teams
The Dutchman praised United's performance against Bournemouth, particularly their dominance in the first third of the game.
"I am very happy," he said.
"The first 25 minutes was a very good performance, maybe one of the highest levels of the season. It's the way we want to play football, pin the opponent back, good counter-press, good press against a good team.
"A clean sheet is always very important to be successful in a season. It's telling something about our structure and plan and dedication from the team and the belief they have in the plan and how they execute it."
"We also have great players in the pressing, defending and in the end we have a very good goalkeeper."
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