Bournemouth v Grimsby Preview

By: Alex Green
Date: 23/10/2009

WELL this has been an interesting week even by our own chaotic standards. From sacking Newell in somewhat unknown circumstances to becoming a beacon for sexual equality it’s time we all sat down and took a deep breath or have a drink whichever you prefer

Not since Bonetti met his maker with some chicken has the press been so intrigued by the off the field antics at Blundell Park. Not that the on the field antics are much to crow about. So Town will face top of the league Bournemouth managerless and maybe even captainless but don't despair because you could be one of the loyal if slightly deranged folks travelling the long arduous to see Neil Woods first game in charge.

Last Season Was....

Was an unmitigated success on all accounts well apart from the accounts of course. Bournemouth were able to overhaul their points deduction managing to finish above ourselves and just a point behind Notts County and Macclesfield with a far superior goal difference. Howe as the youngest manager in the Football League exceeded all expectation and even with the dark cloud of financial problems hanging over the club Howe’s appointment on New Years Day was a masterstroke.

This Season.... How the hell have they done it! With their current transfer embargo you would expect Bournemouth to be just as hounded by progress this season as they were the last but somehow Eddie Howe has managed to build, support and adapt a threadbare team that is not only winning but playing attractive football. Even though Bournemouth top the table now it hasn't all been plain sailing of late. Until Danny Holland’s goal 14th minute from time at Aldershot last Saturday Bournemouth were on their way to a fifth game without a win and with just 8 points separating top from 11th in League Two it’s imperative none of the clubs slip.

Key Player... Brett Pitman

Jersey born Pitman has become a hero of Bournemouth’s resurgence having been at the club since 2004 Pitman at 6ft dead was Bournemouth’s top scorer last season with 17 goals, 8 yellow cards and 1 red. This season Pitman has further improved himself managing 7 goals already this year and has become so pivotal to The Cherries fortune that when he takes a dip in form (as he has done recently) so does the club. The number 9 is quick intelligent strong and calm in front of goal.

Team News.

Club captain Ryan Bennett has departed to Peterborough which does not help a defensive injury crisis.

Defender Rob Atkinson (groin) is out, while Matt Heywood (knee) is doubtful.

Robbie Stockdale (groin), Adam Proudlock (ankle) and Nathan Jar man (foot) are all on the treatment list, whilst Barry Conlon is still suspended. .

But two returnees could be left-back Joe Widdowson and midfielder Danny Boshell, who is eligible again after a two-match ban.

Bournemouth assistant manager Jason Tindall required dental treatment this week following a training ground collision with midfielder Anton Robinson.

Long term absentees Scott Guyett, Shaun Cooper, Joe Partington and Sammy Igoe are all still out.

Prediction.

I wish Woods well it’s been nothing but a nightmare first week in charge for the Town legend but if Woods can transfer his skills and fortune from the youth team to the first team we may well be in business. We have nothing to lose and that could be our biggest advantage.

Bournemouth 1-1 Grimsby

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