BOURNEMOUTH are top of the ECB Southern Premier League for the first time since they were champions in August 2010.

They leapt to pole position with a thumping 117-run win over Hook & Newnham Basics – a result which coincided with unexpected defeats for overnight leaders St Cross Symondians at Alton and Havant by 15 runs at Burridge, writes Mike Vimpany.

It sets up a fascinating top-of-the-table showdown against the Hampshire Academy at Chapel Gate next Sunday (11.30am).

The young Hawks moved to within four points of Bournemouth after double weekend successes against Bashley and Burridge.

Half-centuries by opener Nick Park (51) and Dorset captain Luke Webb (57), meant they shared a 109-run partnership against Hook after Sam Collins had gone cheaply.

Luke Matthews (21), Simon Woodruff (19) and Adam Davies all helped the score along as Bournemouth posted 206-7, with spin duo Richard Willcock (3-44) and Aniket Divecha (2-46) the visitors’ most effective bowlers.

Hook’s batting simply fell to pieces as Dan Conway (3-26), Ed Denham (2-21) and Oli Breckon tore into their top order, with only Matt Love (21) and Jordan Hobday (16) putting up much resistance.

Jake Hurley chipped in with 3-7 as Hook’s last six wickets fell for 20 runs and the side to a dismal 89 all out.

Meanwhile, defending champions Parley are back in a familiar top spot in Hampshire League Division One after an emphatic 135-run win at rock-bottom Hursley Park.

Alex Nippard (60), supported by Rosh Embalagama (35), teenager Marcus Bragginton (32), Jack Rowett (26) before a breezy 37 not out from Alex Cridland (37) eased Parley to 255-8.

Ollie Green (4-16) and Rowatt (4-33) rushed Hursley out for 120.