Dunn backing Lions to stop the rot (From Bournemouth Echo)

Dunn backing Lions to stop the rot

7:00am Friday 8th March 2013 in Rugby By Ian Wadley

DAVID Dunn is adamant Lions can scramble clear of danger by halting their worrying losing run and insists: “Our destiny is still in our own hands.”

Relegation-threatened Bournemouth will be aiming to begin a much-needed climb towards safety when they host lowly Clifton tomorrow (2.30pm).

Seven successive defeats have left the Chapel Gate outfit perilously close to the drop zone in their debut campaign in National Two South.

But with seven matches remaining – the next two of which are on home territory – Dunn is confident his players will finally stop the rot.

The Lions director of rugby told the Daily Echo: “We now have two home games against Clifton and Dings and the players are aware these matches are absolutely crucial. Other clubs like Lydney and Clifton have a much harder run-in.

“We have to make home advantage count in these next two games. We know if we get our game right in the next two weeks, we have got enough to win both matches.”

Lions will be boosted by the return of fit-again duo Ben Featherstone and Dean Pearce.

Loose-head prop Featherstone has been out since before Christmas with a dislocated shoulder, while centre Pearce has made a rapid recovery from a similar injury.

Dunn said: “Ben’s return will certainly strengthen our squad. He is going to be a big impact player and he is good to have around.

“Dean has stepped up to the plate very well in the National League.”

Jaryd Robinson and Eddie Edwards are back available but Joe Burns (ankle), Tom Vaughan-Edwards (shoulder) and Tommy Booth (work commitments) are all out.

Lions: (from) Carrel, Featherstone, Wilford, Manning, Firetto, Forrest, Collier, Peart, Hart, Grace, Andrews, Hardcastle, Stevenson, Drake, Connolly, Pearce, Chislett, Robinson, Pollard, Edwards, Veneroso, O’Brien.

• In South West One East, Swanage & Wareham’s relegation could be confirmed when they visit Bracknell.
• Southern Counties South high-fliers Wimborne visit Weymouth, while Oakmeadians host Walcot.
• In London Three South West, Ellingham & Ringwood make the trip to Sandown & Shanklin.