BOURNEMOUTH’S prospects of lifting the ECB Southern Premier Division championship for the first time since 2010 have now almost diminished.

A fifth defeat in six matches – by two wickets against Bashley – has dropped Chris Park’s side into mid-table and some 39 points adrift of leaders South Wilts, writes Mike Vimpany.

Bournemouth made 133-8 off their 50 overs, with Bashley, chasing a reduced target of 122 off 42 overs, got home by two wickets.

Only Bournemouth opener Nick Park, who batted almost the entire innings for his 53, and Michael Porter, whose grafted 48 was a match-winner for Bashley, showed the technique to survive.

Bournemouth skipper Chris Park reflected: “It was a disappointing result for us again. Unfortunately, we are just not scoring the runs at moment.

“The pitch had its part to play but we can’t blame it completely. Both teams had to bat on it.

“It was a game of small margins. There was a controversial six – was it caught inside or outside of the boundary? – but for the first time this season our bowlers had an off day under pressure.

“We are fully focused to finish the season strong and as high up the table as we can. Every game there is something on it. Which can only be good for the league.”

Nick Park faced 137 deliveries for his 53 before being eighth man out at 128 – but what an important contribution it was, as he glued the Bournemouth innings together after two early strikes by Brad Currie (3-24) presented Lions with an uphill task.

Ollie Shrubsole (16), Chris Park (13) and latterly Rob Pack (16 not out) gave Park support as rain affected play.

Bashley lost Jacob Gordon first ball and were soon 27-3 (Dan Conway 2-19), leaving Michael Porter to play a role similar to that of Park – and win the game for his side.

He ground out vital runs with Dan Andrew (20) but after the university student had become the first of three victims for Jake Hurley (3-29), Bashley lost wickets at regular intervals.

Porter was eventually run out at 106-7 and, when Mitch Wilson was bowled by Hurley at 114-8, Bournemouth sniffed victory.

But Sam Stroud settled Bashley nerves with two boundaries, the visitors getting home with an over to spare.