SKIPPER Chris Park described as “a lesson we need to take on the chin” Bournemouth’s convincing 95-run defeat to Southern Premier League rivals South Wilts.

Lions were hit by a colossal third-wicket partnership of 161 between opener Tom Morton (89) and James Hayward (128). The latter’s devastating century included 17 fours and three sixes.

Simon Woodruff (2-53) and Dom Clutterbuck (2-57) were the only Bournemouth bowlers to take wickets. There was also a run-out as the hosts posted 293 for five having chosen to bat first.

And Bournemouth never looked like getting anywhere near their victory target in reply, being reduced to 112 for eight at one stage.

Lower order contributions from Ed Denham (57) and Clutterbuck (29) helped them reach 198 all out. Opener Nick Park top scored with 66 from 88 deliveries.

Reflecting on the contest, Chris Park told the Daily Echo: “It was frustrating day because I didn’t think we played to anywhere near our capabilities.

“The first 10 overs we didn’t bowl well with too many four balls and some sloppy fielding. We pulled it back and Dom Clutterbuck and Rob Pack bowled nicely until drinks.

“I don’t know what was in the orange squash but after drinks we seemed to just blow up. More bad balls came down and with two batsmen seeing the ball well, every single bad ball we bowled went for four or six.

“With five or six overs left it was basically free-hitting from the South Wilts middle order. It was disappointing we couldn’t keep them to 260 or 270.”

He added: “South Wilts are a very established and experienced Southern Premier League side with four or five Minor Counties cricketers.

“On a good batting pitch, Tom Morton and James Hayward showed their class in what was a well-timed innings and partnership from them both.

“It’s a lesson we need to take on the chin and we need to bounce back next week.”