BOSS Eddie Howe watched Brett Pitman post a leading contender for Cherries’ goal of the season and then highlighted the importance of his two number 10s.

The Channel Islander walked off with the Sky Sports man-of-the-match award after bagging a double in Cherries' 5-1 rout of Championship strugglers Fulham last night.

Pitman was restored to the starting line-up at the expense of fellow striker Yann Kermorgant who had netted twice in the midweek win over Wolves.

Kermorgant, who has shared the number 10 role with Pitman this season, was left out due to a dead leg but was fit enough to take his place on the bench.

But the Frenchman was afforded a rest and looked on from the bench as Pitman netted a stunning third goal after running from inside his own half at Craven Cottage.

Howe said: “I was pleased for Brett because he has been an unsung hero for us this season. He has shared the number 10 duties with Yann and they have dove-tailed really well.

“If you add together their goals (Kermorgant 13 and Pitman 10), it has been an incredible return from our number 10.

“Brett’s two goals were excellently taken, both with his left foot. The second one will take the headlines but both were equally as good for me.

“His second goal was up there with his free-kick against Wycombe (in Howe’s first win as a manager in January 2009) which was such an important goal for the club and for him.

“And it was quite similar to one he scored at Exeter (in March 2009) which was an incredible goal when he ran half the length of the pitch. That was another massive goal for the club and at such an important stage of the season. Who knows, that one could be equally as important.”

Howe described conceding Fulham’s goal as “disappointing” but added “I can’t be picky beyond that”.

And asked whether he was concerned that goal bonuses could bankrupt the club, he quipped: “Thankfully, we don’t have any in the contracts!”