Justin Kluivert has declared Bournemouth’s ambition to make a lasting impression in the Premier League after a commanding 4-1 win over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park on Saturday.
Kluivert’s stellar performance included his second hat-trick of the season, with the Dutch forward also assisting Milos Kerkez in the closing minutes. This feat marks the 20th Premier League hat-trick by a Dutch player, making Kluivert the fourth Dutchman to score multiple hat-tricks, joining legends like Ruud van Nistelrooy, Robin van Persie, and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
The 24-year-old has now scored in three consecutive away league games for the first time, with only Mohamed Salah (11) surpassing his nine away goals this season. Kluivert also joins an elite group of just seven players to score multiple hat-tricks in away games within a single Premier League campaign, a milestone last achieved by Raheem Sterling in 2019-20.
Reflecting on the win, Kluivert said:
“This feels incredible. Winning here against a great team, especially given our injury challenges, is a testament to our determination. Hats off to the team for this performance. My goal is to help Bournemouth win games and make an impact. We’re here to leave our mark.”
Saturday’s victory propelled Bournemouth to sixth in the Premier League table, just one point shy of Newcastle, who currently hold the final Champions League spot. Andoni Iraola’s squad has been in red-hot form, winning four of their last six away games (D2), earning a league-best 14 points on the road since November 30th.
Bournemouth also made history by scoring two or more goals in seven consecutive away league games in a single season for the first time. Despite their success, Antoine Semenyo, who assisted Kluivert’s opener, emphasized the team’s focus on staying grounded:
“Our mindset is incredibly strong. We face challenges with injuries but know our collective strength can overcome anything. We’re taking it one game at a time without unnecessary pressure.”