Despite the Eagles’ Premier League status being mathematically secure ahead of kick-off, their performance was one of collective desire, diligence and – in the important moments – sheer quality, as Ebere Eze’s superb brace swept the Cherries aside.
Hodgson reflected at full-time: “I’m very pleased. I thought it was an excellent performance from the team.
“At this stage of the season, this time of year, you’re never quite sure whether the players are going to find that inner motivation. I always believed they could and they would, but to do it in such a dominant fashion as they did this afternoon is obviously very rewarding for them, but also for us as a coaching staff. We were delighted to see it.
“Both goals were excellent in the build-up, especially the first, which involved even more passes, but the second – with that incredible cross-field pass from Michael Olise and the wonderful shot [from Eze]…
“I thought there were so many occasions when the quality of our attacking play led to chances and quite clear goal opportunities, we just weren’t quite able to find that final touch or final ball. We were so close on so many occasions. It’s as dominant a home performance as I’ve seen since the Leicester City game.
“If there were any doubts today, these players, with that performance, blew them out of the water.”