Cherries under-21s set for Central League Cup final

Shaun Cooper's side have played a series of friendlies in recent weeks, since securing their spot in the showpiece event with victory over Southend United back in December.

Cherries are set to head to St George's Park in Staffordshire for the contest against the Cumbrians (2pm), looking to lift the trophy they previously won in 2019.

Looking ahead to the contest, midfielder Keelan O'Connell told afcbTV: "I'm really looking forward to it. We haven't had a competitive game like this for a long time, it's been friendlies for the best part of three or four months, so it's really exciting.

"I don't think I've played a single minute yet in this competition, so it will be good to get out there and try to win it for everyone.

"These occasions where you get to play on a nice pitch and where England's training ground is, not many people get to do that. It is good for us."

O'Connell himself has been in fine form in recent weeks, netting in friendly wins over Bristol Rovers and Peterborough United, following a return from a long-term injury.

Asked if specific work on his finishing in training has been the key behind his recent uptick in form, the Ferndown-raised ace said: "To be honest, not really, no! I think because of how long the injury was, I've taken thing a little bit easy.

"I think I'm just lucky enough to find my goalscoring boots.

"I'm feeling good. It took me a month or so to get my fitness back and get a few games in, but I'm feeling good, better than I have for a long time so I'm excited."