CARL Fletcher could not fault Cherries' youngsters following the 3-2 defeat at Newcastle United in the last 16 of the Premier League Cup.

Midfielder Nnamdi Ofoborh put the visitors ahead at the Magpies' training centre when he tapped into the net from close range.

Macaulay Gillesphey replied early in the second half, only for Mikael Ndjoli to restore the lead when he rounded the goalkeeper and slotted home.

However, Luke Charman's double – the second of which came eight minutes from time – settled the outcome in the hosts' favour.

Fletcher told the club website: "I'm really disappointed we've gone out.

"It was a tough game for us with six under-18s and two first years, and two full-backs who are usually centre-backs and are both 18, so we're really pleased with the lads.

"It was a horrible day in wet and windy conditions against a category one academy with much older, physical players.

"We stood up to the task for the majority of the game. Mistakes and individual errors cost us but going forward we'll be better for these.

"It's a learning curve for the group, making sure we maintain concentration in possession. But it was a fantastic test against a strong Newcastle side."