Bournemouth lead Sturm Graz 1-0 at half-time in their Europa League league-phase meeting at Vitality Stadium on Thursday.
Evanilson put the hosts in front in the 43rd minute with an outstanding header from Adam Smith’s cross, rewarding Bournemouth’s control of the opening period.
Bournemouth made the brighter start and frequently looked to attack down the flanks. Marcus Tavernier had the first clear opportunity in the 12th minute, but his effort flew over the crossbar.
The hosts continued to apply pressure, with Ben Gannon-Doak particularly effective when driving forward on the right. Evanilson appeared to have opened the scoring in the 28th minute, only for the goal to be ruled out because of an infringement involving Oumar Diakite inside the penalty area.
Bournemouth did not have to wait long for a valid breakthrough. Smith delivered a precise cross from the right shortly before the interval, and Evanilson met it with a header from distance. The Brazilian striker judged the attempt perfectly, lifting it over the Sturm Graz goalkeeper to give his side the lead.
The goal came after Bournemouth had already gone close through Tavernier, who struck the post in the 31st minute.
Sturm Graz created few openings during the first half. The Austrian side were largely occupied with trying to contain Bournemouth’s attacking play and were unable to seriously test the home goalkeeper.
Bournemouth therefore take a deserved advantage into the break, although Sturm Graz remain within one goal and can still draw level if they find an opportunity after half-time.