WILL Croker admitted Bournemouth would have to be pitch perfect at Maidenhead if they were to keep up their flawless South West Premier record.

Lions on Saturday make the trip to play on the 3G surface at Braywick Park, where they suffered a 52-30 defeat to the hosts 12 months ago.

Maidenhead have won five out of their six home league fixtures this season – a record which has helped them to fourth in the table.

Head coach Croker told the Daily Echo: “Maidenhead last season was one of the few games where we got properly beaten. We know it’s going to be a tough day out.

“Their 3G pitch is very different to most. It is one of the very first ones that was laid – it’s shorter than the modern ones.

“Their front row especially is incredibly experienced playing on it. They have a big front five who know how to play on it very well.

“They kick well for the corners and try to utilise their big pack to score pushover tries, as well as having some good outside backs.”

Bournemouth are 11 points clear at the summit having recorded victories in all of their contests this campaign.

Karim Lynch, Joe Rees and Mike Davies are all unavailable for the Chapel Gate side.