Bournemouth were unlucky to draw with Sunderland, says Eddie Howe

Eddie Howe felt Bournemouth were unlucky to leave the Stadium of Light with just a point after a dominant first-half display in their 1-1 draw with Sunderland.

New Bournemouth striker Benik Afobe opened the scoring in the 13th minute with his second goal for the club but Patrick van Aanholt's equaliser on the stroke of half-time proved enough to earn a point for Sunderland.

Howe was hugely encouraged with how Bournemouth started the game and lamented his team's inability to capitalise on their dominance with an all-important second goal.

"It was a good point but we wanted more and our performance deserved more," Howe said.

"Especially early in the game, we were outstanding. We used the ball really well, created some really good moments and deservedly got in front. It was just the second goal that eluded us.

Sunderland held at home

Sunderland 1-1 Bournemouth: Van Aanholt earns Black Cats a point

"For a period in the game, we were totally dominant. We had them penned in their box. Maybe a little bit more guile and a little bit more quality would have got that second goal we needed.

"The disappointing thing for us was the goal we conceded right on half-time. It was a really poor time to concede and it made the second half more difficult. But we still had the best chances in the game."

Despite Howe's frustration, he admitted the draw - which keeps his side four points and three places above the relegation zone - was a not a bad result.

"In this league any point has to be valued and respected - especially away from home," Howe said.

"That is two defeats in 11 so it proves we are moving in the right direction and becoming harder to beat so they are all positives."

Bournemouth suffered a late injury blow when Junior Stanislas - who set up Afobe's goal - was hacked down by Billy Jones and Howe confirmed he could be set for a spell on the sidelines.

"It's looking like he has tweaked his medial ligament but we won't know until we examine him further," said Howe, who declined to comment on the nature of the challenge.

Afobe's goal was his second since his £10m arrival from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Howe revealed he is hoping to do more business before the January transfer window closes.

"We are looking," Howe confirmed. "We are hoping. We have always said we are still looking to add but it won't be huge numbers and it will only be, hopefully, the right players."