BOSS Joe Roach hailed the tactical nous of his young charges following their 1-1 draw with reigning Puma Youth Alliance champions Plymouth Argyle on Saturday.

George Webb’s finely-taken first-half opener put Cherries on course for victory at Chapel Gate before the Pilgrims netted a late leveller through Brian McCall.

Roach said: “Plymouth are always a strong side and they have got Championship resources. But, on the day, we were the better side and probably should have won.

“We performed extremely well and created a number of chances. They didn’t score until the end and it was the first time we had conceded in four games.

“Apart from the goal, our keeper Dan Thomas didn’t have a save to make. We were very solid defensively and also made good use of the ball.

“The most important thing for me was that we took the game on in terms of the tactical side and the players showed they could listen, learn and apply.

“It was one of the most pleasing games we have had with respect to certain individuals developing their respective games.

“There were a lot of positives from a team point of view and although I was disappointed for the lads not to get the win, we had a very young side out and it bodes well for next season and beyond.”

Cherries: Thomas, Annetts (Strugnell, 85), Holmes, Oldring, Stephenson, Magookin, Davidson (Carpinelli, 79), Webb, Kemble (Vokes, 71), Burbridge, Ings.