If there were any run-in jitters within the squd, they certainly didn't show at Dean Court this afternoon as the Cherries were (in the end) comfortable winners over Bradford City, despite the 1-0 scoreline.
The opening period of the match was a bit scrappy as both sides felt their way in to the game as neither side found a way through the opposition. But it was the Cherries who were playing the better football, even though there were a few stray passes. But one thing that was noticeable was that when a pass did go astray, the tackling back was excellent from the all everyone.
Clear cut chances were at a premium, but having said that Brett Pitman netted his 22nd goal of the season with ease in the 41st minute. A neat interchange with Fletcher found Pitman, who curled the ball around Glennon in the City goal.
The second half was a more open affair as both sides pushed forward - City for an equaliser and the Cherries to double the advantage.
City could have levelled matters when Evans saw a shot come back off the cross bar and to safety.
For the Cherries, Pitman had a guilt edged chance to double his tally for the afternoon, but found the keeper instead. Another move saw Pitman almost clear with Feeney in space to his right. Pitman tried going for goal and ran in to traffic when passing the ball to Feeney would have been the better option. Sadly it was not to be.
Jalal - still waiting for something to do!
Bradbury - didn't put a foot wrong this afternoon and was strong at right back
Cooper - did very well while he was on the pitch. Shame he had to be substituted just before half time
Garry - assured in defence - a masterful display
Wiggins - didn't put a foot wrong this afternoon and was strong at left back
Feeney - I feel he still needs to be a bit more inventive at times
Hollands - Did very well in the centre of the midfield
Robinson - Was relatively quiet today, but put in an assured performance
Bartley - Did more than his fair share this afternoon. Covered every blade of grass on the pitch more than once.
Fletcher - The script was written for him to score in the newly named Steve Fletcher Stand, but didn't come close
Pitman - 22 goals ........ what more can anyone say. I feel needs to be less selfish at times and have greater awareness when better options are available
Connell - did okay when he came on for Cooper
My man of the match, by a mile, is Marvin Bartley who was outstanding in the centre of the pitch and then in the centre of defence.
AFCB: Jalal, Bradbury, Cooper, Garry, Wiggins, Feeney, Hollands, Robinson, Bartley, Fletcher, Pitman
Subs: Thomas, Igoe, McQuoid, Partington, Cummings, Connell (for Cooper, 41 mins)
Andy Burton, Portsmouth