Daily Express

Solanke finally breaks down Blues

- By John Wragg

PROMOTION favourites Bournemout­h cracked the toughest nut in the Championsh­ip.

Battling Birmingham had not conceded a goal this season until Dominic Solanke struck in the 77th minute.

And Jaidon Anthony followed up that with three minutes left to put the result to bed.

Solanke was strong to hold off a challenge and fire across goalkeeper Matija Sarkic.

Anthony slammed home a close-range volley, leaving the Cherries unbeaten and keeping pace with the early leaders in the division.

The Blues’ defence had been faultless this season and they had most of the game before Bournemout­h finally struck.

Manchester United loanee Tahith Chong was the star of the show and constantly threatened the Cherries by running at them.

Goalkeeper Mark Travers had to deny him after just two minutes and then Chong set up Jonathan Leko for a shot which was also saved.

Travers got some help from his defence in blocking the shot when raiding Chong got through once more but Birmingham failed to capitalise and paid the price.

 ??  ?? JOY: Solanke is mobbed after goal
JOY: Solanke is mobbed after goal

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