BOURNEMOUTH interim performance director Richard Sharp insists Lions are "expecting to get a result" against in-form Clifton on Saturday (2.30pm), writes Adam Hunter.

Lions lifted themselves off the foot of the National Two South table with a 39-12 win over Westcliff at Chapel Gate at the weekend.

Meanwhile, Bristol-based Clifton sit third having won five of their six matches so far this campaign, but Sharp feels the two sides are more evenly matched than the table suggests.

He said: "Clifton are currently sitting third, but they haven’t played any of the top six teams yet.

"We have played some of the hardest teams, so we are anticipating a really tight game on Saturday and expecting to get a result.”

The hosts have shown chinks in their armour in a series of wins that has seen them concede an average of 23 points per game, and Bournemouth will target tries at Station Road against an opponent vulnerable to their relentless attacking style of play.

Bournemouth will again be forced into team changes. A serious head injury to Mike Pope against Westcliff sees the fly-half sidelined for two weeks with concussion. Centre Scott Chislett, veteran of over 300 appearances for the club, moves into the 10 jersey, with homegrown favourite Carlos Snell coming off the bench to take his place at centre. The team also welcomes back prolific try-scorer Adam Higgins after a long injury lay-off.

Sharp adds that he is blessed with a big and competitive squad, making selection decisions ever-more challenging – a problem that he is happy to have.

“Last weekend’s result against Westcliff has certainly energised the club," Sharp said.

"There is a real buzz back amongst the support staff and the players.

“Everyone’s looking to build on that this week, and it’s been really great to be a part of.”

Off the field, Lions have welcomed ex-Worcester Warriors forward Tim Collier back to the club as coach.

"Tim brings a wealth of Premiership playing experience and a certain edge to training," explained Sharp.

"It has been great to watch the intensity really picking up again this week."