SCOTT Chislett has labelled Bournemouth’s rapid rise from Southern Counties South to the top of National League Three a “remarkable feat”.

Lions’ utility man joined the club in 2004 when they were still fighting to get into South West Two East.

Since making his debut in an inauspicious 30-12 defeat at North Dorset seven years ago, Chislett has seen Bournemouth’s fortunes completely turn round.

The 24-year-old has played a pivotal part in ambitious Lions’ rise to prominence. And he marked his 150th game by slotting over three conversions and two penalties in a convincing 37-13 home triumph over Chinnor.

Victory propelled Bournemouth to the top of National Three South West – their highest position since joining the league in 1987.

Chislett, who saw Sam Hardcastle (two), Robert Bruce (two) and Eddie Edwards grab tries for Lions, said: “Looking back, I can’t really believe the club has come this far so quickly. It’s a big step up when you compare the teams we play now with the ones we were playing.

“We thought that was a good standard then and it was. But to see us go up and up and up is quite remarkable.”

Bournemouth prised top-spot from Hartpury College, whose clash at title rivals Old Patesians was frozen off.

Now Lions have 11 games left to achieve their aim of securing National Two status in what is a three-horse race for first place.

Chislett, whose side have won 10 matches in a row, said: “It’s nice to know all our hard work is paying off. The first couple of seasons we were in this division it was hard to stay up, but we’ve found our feet now and are ready to go up.

“Each season we’re getting better and better and that’s down to having strong first and second team squads. We have good strength in depth. It keeps everyone on their toes and focused.”

Lions: K Lynch, Yarwood, Edwards (Pollard, 43), Bruce, Stewart, Chislett, Hardcastle, Wareham (R Lynch, 50), Wilford, Manning, Forrest, Brooks, Hennings, Ford (Tarrant, 63), Hughes.