Ajani Burchall and his Bournemouth Under-18 teammates got their condensed six-game Merit League campaign off to a flying start as they won 2-0 away at Gillingham.
Jake Adams netted inside two minutes with a fine individual effort after the visitors played out well from a goal kick. Adams then had two further opportunities, while 'keeper Josh Clarke was called into action to make a good save.
Passing the ball well, Bournemouth withstood pressure well, heading in the break with their lead intact.
Marcus Daws then scored shortly after the restart, Bournemouth won the ball back, playing wide to Burchall who found his team-mate, Daws striking into the net with a confident low finish.
Clarke made further saves to retain the away side's strong position in the contest, Bournemouth also making chances to add to their scoreline as they saw out their strong away performance.
Alan Connell's side was a particularly young one, with two second years from the under-18s setup, three first years, and all the other starters coming from the under-16s squad and gaining invaluable experience.
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