AFC Bournemouth
Manager Alan Connell feels his AFC Bournemouth development squad merits a bumper crowd as they bid to strengthen their position at the top of their Premier League Cup group.
The Cherries guaranteed progression to the knockout stage of the competition after recording an emphatic 5-1 win over Wolves at Eastleigh’s Silverlake Stadium on Monday.
And they could take a significant step towards securing home advantage in the last 16 when they entertain Charlton Athletic at Wimborne Town’s New Cuthbury on Saturday (1pm kick-off).
Victory would leave Connell’s team three points ahead of second-placed Norwich – with the Canaries meeting the Cherries in a Group C title decider at New Cuthbury on 3rd February.
The Cherries agreed a deal to play a number of their academy fixtures at Wimborne at the start of this season and entry to the Magpies’ impressive stadium is free to spectators.
Charlton’s visit is the first of three Cherries games at the venue in eight days with Connell’s team hosting Millwall in the Professional Development League on Tuesday (1pm kick-off) before doing battle with Norwich on Saturday week (noon kick-off).
Connell, whose team have won 13 and drawn two of their past 16 games in all competitions, told afcb.co.uk: “It seems like a great opportunity for our supporters to watch the next generation. There’s no first-team game on Saturday and it’s free to watch.
“Some of these players have been involved with the first team in recent weeks and, hopefully, others are going to be pushing soon.
“Now we’ve progressed to the knockout stage, the next challenge is to try to finish top of the group which would mean a home draw in the next round.
“Supporters will see a hard-working and very committed team which plays a style I think they will enjoy.
“We’ve got some talented individuals who are really exciting to watch and it would be great to see as many supporters as possible at New Cuthbury.
“I think it’s what our players deserve for all their hard work, their togetherness and the quality they have shown so far this season.”
Connell added: “Wimborne Town FC have been very welcoming this season and they have a nice stadium.
“It’s a really good setup and provides a rich matchday experience for our players and staff and I think any supporters who come along will feel very welcome and enjoy the facilities and football that’s on offer.”
New Cuthbury is situated at the end of Ainsley Road and parking is also free (postcode: BH21 2FU).
Development squad Supported by
