ON THIS DAY – MARCH 25, 2014
FULL-BACK Simon Francis revealed boss Eddie Howe’s pre-match history lesson had helped to inspire Cherries’ scintillating start against Leeds United.
Howe’s charges tore into their rivals from the first whistle, going on to win 4-1 thanks to braces from both Yann Kermorgant and Lewis Grabban.
The sweet success came 24 years after Leeds had relegated Cherries from Division Two with a 1-0 win at Dean Court on the last day of the season amid violent scenes attributed to visiting supporters.
Francis, who provided three assists against the Yorkshire club, told the Daily Echo: “The manager underlined the history between the two clubs and it was something I hadn’t been too aware of to be honest. That made it a big occasion, especially for the fans."
Cherries: Camp, Francis, Cook, Elphick, Harte, Ritchie (Rantie, 78), Surman (O’Kane, 54), Arter, M Pugh, Grabban, Kermorgant (Pitman, 83).
Unused subs: Ward, Smith, MacDonald, Allsop (g/k).
Leeds: Butland, Byram, Lees, Pearce, D Pugh, Mowatt, Murphy (Stewart, 58), Austin, Hunt (White, 58), Smith, McCormack.
Unused subs: Wootton, Walters, Tonge, Zaliukas, Cairns (g/k).
Attendance: 10,109 (inc. 1,338 away fans)
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