Steve Fletcher has urged Bournemouth fans to recreate a powerful Dean Court atmosphere ahead of Sunday’s clash with Crystal Palace. With a chance to go sixth and extend a 14-game unbeaten run, the Cherries face a defining test in their push for Europe.
AFC Bournemouth legend Steve Fletcher has called on supporters to play their part this weekend as the Cherries prepare for a huge Premier League clash against Crystal Palace at Dean Court.
With European qualification now firmly within reach, Sunday’s fixture carries enormous significance. Andoni Iraola’s side head into the game sitting seventh, but with results elsewhere opening the door, a win could lift Bournemouth into sixth place - a remarkable position at this stage of the season.
Saturday’s results largely fell in Bournemouth’s favour. Sunderland dropped points away at Wolves, Brighton were beaten by Newcastle United, and Fulham suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat at Arsenal. The only slight setback came with Brentford’s win over West Ham, a result that pushed them into sixth - but crucially, the Cherries still have a game in hand.
Victory on Sunday would see Bournemouth leapfrog them on 52 points.
It’s another reminder that this season - already historic, with the club sitting in their highest-ever position after 34 games - now hinges on moments like these, and Fletcher believes the fans can make the difference.
Taking to Instagram, the club legend reflected on the atmosphere generated in recent home games, particularly during the pre-match rendition of "Never Tear Us Apart".
"Seeing all of those scarves aloft was one of the most powerful things I’ve seen at the stadium in 33 years," he said, urging supporters to recreate the moment ahead of the Palace clash.
Action Images via Reuters/Paul ChildsThe anthem, introduced in recent weeks, has quickly become a focal point for the Dean Court crowd. First debuted against Manchester United and followed by a sea of raised scarves against Leeds United, it has helped generate a sense of unity and belief around the ground.
That energy could prove vital.
Despite Bournemouth’s impressive 14-game unbeaten run in the league, their home form against sides in and around them has been inconsistent. Dropped points in similar fixtures earlier this season have prevented them from fully capitalising on their momentum - making Sunday’s game all the more important.
Fletcher, who was recently honoured as the club’s Fans’ Champion, spoke of his pride and connection to the supporters.
"This club means so much to me", he said. "Moments like that are still so special - and so are the fans".
With Palace arriving as a stubborn and well-organised opponent, Bournemouth will need intensity on the pitch - and noise off it.
Because if the Cherries are to take another step toward the promised land, this is a moment that requires everyone.