Bournemouth secured a point against Sunderland in a 1-1 draw at Vitality Stadium, with substitute Evanilson rescuing the Cherries in the second half.
The Brazilian forward entered the pitch at the interval and made an immediate impact, finding the net in the 63rd minute to cancel out Sunderland’s earlier advantage.
His contribution proved crucial as the south coast club stretched their unbeaten Premier League sequence to eight matches.
The result ensures Andoni Iraola’s side remain in contention for European qualification, sitting in eighth position in the table following Saturday’s encounter.
Sunderland took the lead midway through the first half when Eliezer Mayenda capitalised on a rebound opportunity.
Goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic could only push Habib Diarra’s powerful effort back into the danger zone, allowing the Spanish striker to force the ball home from close quarters.
Eliezer Mayenda put Sunderland ahead against Bournemouth in the 18th minute
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Despite creating numerous chances to level before the break, Bournemouth struggled to convert.
Manager Iraola responded by withdrawing David Brooks at half-time, introducing Evanilson to inject fresh impetus into the attack.
Five facts about the Premier League | PA/GETTY/REUTERS/GBNEWSThe tactical switch paid dividends when Marcus Tavernier delivered an excellent cross that Evanilson converted.
Officials conducted a prolonged VAR review for a potential handball, but footage confirmed the forward had used his shoulder.
Sunderland believed they had snatched victory nine minutes from time when Diarra found the net, only for the linesman’s flag to deny them.
The offside decision meant both sides shared the spoils at the final whistle.
Evanilson levelled for Bournemouth against Sunderland
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For Bournemouth, the draw maintains their push for continental football as they hold onto eighth spot in the standings.
The Cherries’ eight-match unbeaten streak keeps European ambitions firmly on track.
Sunderland, meanwhile, will take encouragement from halting a run of three consecutive defeats.
Régis Le Bris’s side climbed to 11th place, providing some respite after their recent difficult spell.