BOURNEMOUTH under-17s recorded a narrow victory in a nerve-jangling South West Regional Bowl final.

The Chapel Gate side triumphed 6-3 over Beaconsfield at Trowbridge Rugby Club and are now just one win away from a national final date.

A mixed squad of under-16 and under-17 players was reduced to just 17 players due to injury and unavailability.

Bournemouth had just two replacements at their disposal and certain players were required to play out of position as a result of the absences.

Early pressure from Beaconsfield kept Bournemouth on their toes and Sue Grey’s side were under the cosh for much of the first half.

But the Dorset outfit’s defensive determination saw them trail by just three points at the break, with Beaconsfield’s points coming through a penalty.

After the break, Bournemouth’s ball distribution improved and they spent more time in opposition territory.

Beaconsfield became increasingly frustrated and one of their players was shown a red card towards the end of the game.

A pair of Cody Rowe penalties gave Bournemouth a narrow 6-3 win come the final whistle.

Bournemouth will now take on Rosslyn Park at Henley Rugby Club in the National Bowl semi-final on Sunday.

Should they win that fixture, the teenagers will take on either Durham City or Burton in the final. Those two teams meet at Billesley Common in Birmingham, also on Sunday.

Reflecting on the win over Beaconsfield, club president Doug Warren said: “It was a gutsy and disciplined performance.”

Boss Grey added: “Bournemouth under-17s is a tight-knit squad. Although strong in character they have never had the advantage of height and weight and are accustomed to battling.

“Success in the competition is recognition of the squad’s achievement in the face of additional challenges presented by injury and squad depletion.

“The remaining players have been ably enhanced by several players from the under-16 age group.”

Meanwhile, Swanage & Wareham under-17s take on Cobham under-17s in the semi-final of the National Shield on Sunday.

The clash is due to take place at Henley RFC.

Should they triumph, Swans would face either Huddersfield YMCA or Barkers’ Butts in the final.

Those teams also lock horns on Sunday, this time at Billesley Common.

  • See today's Daily Echo for a team picture of Bournemouth under-17s and a full squad list.