BOURNEMOUTH Poppies boss Ken Vaughan has vowed to step up his search for key personnel after the club’s heaviest home defeat in Sydenhams Wessex League.

Andy Todd (3), Benny Read (2), Warren Hunt (2) and Ashley Hawes were on target as championship-chasing Petersfield pummelled poor Poppies 8-0 at Victoria Park.

Vaughan cited the absence of four senior players but offered “no excuses” for the collapse and promised swift action to plug the gaps.

“Our biggest problem is getting the same side out every week,” said Vaughan. “We need to find some new players, key people who are prepared to play week in, week out.

“The disruption has cost us too many times and if we do not sort it out we will find ourselves battling relegation.”

Vaughan, who also saw Poppies defender Shima Ami dismissed in the second half, went on to back “outstanding” Petersfield’s title credentials.

Elsewhere, Adie Arnold hailed the influence of two new recruits as Christchurch pouched a precious point at league leaders Moneyfields. 

Former Priory defender Colin Dand and forward Lewis Brown featured as Arnold's charges extended to three points their cushion over relegation rivals Fareham with a 2-2 draw at Moneyfields Avenue.

“It was totally unexpected to be honest and all of the lads deserve a lot of credit” said Arnold. 

“I had started to question a few things after we lost heavily at Fareham but to a man they put in a real shift and got their rewards.

“Colin and Lewis helped bring freshness to our play. I could not fault any of the lads.” 

Brown bagged a goal on his debut and veteran striker Gareth Barnes also found the net.

Tony Lee grabbed the only goal of a dour match which saw Lymington Town overcome winless back-markers Totton & Eling 1-0.

Verwood Town lost 4-1 at home to AFC Portchester with Tom Whelan on target for the Potters.

Rob Woolner was at the double in New Milton Town's 3-0 victory over East Cowes Vics, a result which moved Linnets up to fourth in Sydenhams Wessex One.