The Cherries' first win of the new Premier League campaign came thanks to a Callum Wilson goal at Vitality Stadium.
Howe also admitted that he was relieved to see the game go in the Cherries' favour after a competitive second half.
"That first win is so important," Howe said.
"I'm delighted with the win and it's a relief as we should have had more from the games we've had.
"Especially with Manchester City coming up next week, it was a massive win.
"Overall I'd say we were good value, in the first half we were totally dominant and we didn't cut them open, which is probably a recurring theme of the season to date.
"In the second half we lost a little control but had our best chances, it was a really good win for us."
Wilson was the matchwinner for Howe, when with 12 minutes to play he diverted Adam Smith's low cross into the bottom corner.
The striker's passionate celebrations encapsulated his emotions - it was not only the winner but his first goal since his lengthy injury lay off.
Howe was full of praise for the striker and said, "You almost don't feel like you're back to full fitness or at your very best until you score as a striker.
"It's been a long road for Callum and he's shown real maturity and remarkable mental strength.
"He was at the peak of his career before his injury and he was red hot for us.
"You can see how much that meant from the celebrations of not only him but his team mates too, it was great to see him score the winner."
Wilson was over the moon with his winner. Read what the striker had to say here.
