BOURNEMOUTH were again left cursing their luck after a third narrow defeat of the campaign – a 28-25 reverse at Exmouth.

The lead changed hands no fewer than four times at the Imperial Recreation Ground with the Lions hitting the front early on through a Jack Parsons penalty and Anthony Fitch try, although five points were dropped by the visitors during the opening seven minutes.

Exmouth missed a penalty of their own but levelled matters when Matt Garner’s unconverted try was followed by Richard Cadywould’s first successful effort with the boot.

The momentum looked to be shifting when Jack Madge got over the line and Cadywould added the extras but back came Bournemouth through a Parsons penalty and converted Wyn Roberts try, stylishly assisted by Scott Chislett.

But no sooner had Will Croker’s men regained the initiative, Cadywould popped up to level matters right on half-time with what proved a crucial contribution to the final score.

Another penalty after the interval nudged Exmouth ahead once more with Dave Bargent’s converted try putting 10 points between the teams.

Roberts bagged his brace and kicked for two further points himself to set up a grandstand finish but there was to be no late change to a frustrating result for Lions.