DEVELOPMENT coach Stephen Purches believes his crop of young Cherries can only benefit from their diverse pre-season schedule.

Purches saw his charges survive a tough opening half an hour at Wimborne Town yesterday before seizing control to run out comfortable 4-0 winners.

That success came three days after the development side beat their Brighton & Hove Albion counterparts 2-1 in a behind closed doors friendly at the Seagulls' Elite Football Performance Centre.

First-half goals from Brandon Goodship and Ben Whitfield secured the success in Sussex, while Josh O'Hanlon, Harrison Gilkes, Aly Coulibaly and Jayden Stockley netted in the second half at Cuthbury.

Delivering his post-match verdict at Wimborne, Purches said: “Apart from the first 20 minutes, the players did pretty much everything I had asked them to but we shouldn't have taken that long to get into the game, we have to be ready from the start.

“It was very hot and the best thing we could do in the conditions was to try to move the ball well. We did that towards the end and that was where our fitness told.”

Discussing his team's trip to Brighton, Purches continued: “A lot of things we have been trying to work on came to fruition during the first half. Other things didn't but there were plenty of positives to pick out.

“It is a fantastic place to go and play, not only for the lads but for myself and the staff as well and to do okay in that environment is a good thing. We hope to get many more games like that.

“One of the key things we try to do is get the players experience of playing and coping with different styles.

“You need knowledge of every style of football to recognise when you're in certain situations and learn how to deal with them. The variety (of pre-season fixtures) will stand the lads in good stead as we look to bring them on.”

Meanwhile, Purches hailed the arrival of midfielder Aly Coulibaly, brother of Cherries winger Mohamed, on a one-year deal.

“Aly is a bit different to what have in the squad. He's a very industrious player who uses the ball well and is capable of finishing too,” said Purches.

“He has real enthusiasm and as the philosophy of the club rubs off on him, who knows how far he can go.

“It helps with his brother being here as he comes in with an understanding of what's expected. He will be a good addition.”

Purches also confirmed that former Poole Town and Brockenhurst College goalkeeper Pat O'Flaherty had been added to the development squad.