Source: Bournemouth_Echo
Cherries: Howe's delight at strike partnership
EDDIE Howe watched as Brett Pitman fired his side to another victory before highlighting the importance of Steve Fletcher to the young goal machine's increasing strike rate.[LNB] Talented Pitman continued to grab the headlines by hitting a well-taken double in Cherries 2-0 victory at Darlington yesterday.[LNB] It was another clinical performance from the homegrown star, who opened the scoring with a fine overhead kick before slotting home a late penalty.[LNB] Pitmans goals ensured Cherries remain at the top of League Two but Howe was quick to point to the importance of Fletchers efforts when he gave his post-match views.[LNB] The Cherries manager believes the clubs record appearance-maker, who produced a good performance at the Northern Echo Arena, is crucial to Pitmans form.[LNB] He said: Brett took both goals well. The second one was a penalty but the first one was a great finish.[LNB] Fletch plays a big part in how effective Brett is and they are working well as a partnership at the moment.[LNB] While Howe revealed that he doesnt go out of his way to study the league table, when he picks up his newspaper he will see Cherries sitting at the top of the tree.[LNB] A key part of the Dorset outfits success this term has been their record on the road, something which was enhanced with yesterdays workmanlike display.[LNB] Weve started well away from home, said Howe. Northampton was the only disappointing result that weve had and even then we couldve won.[LNB] Were pleased. If you get your home form right and pick up points away then youve got half a chance of being successful.[LNB] I keep repeating myself every week, but we just want to keep this run going.[LNB] The victory over Darlington also handed Howe a bit of revenge for his first defeat in management.[LNB] Handed the Cherries reins on a temporary basis at the turn of the year, the rookie bosss maiden match in charge was at the north east venue, with his side losing 2-1 after conceding late goals on that occasion.[LNB] Reflecting on the two matches, he added: Its funny because I actually thought we played better here last season and got beaten.[LNB] Its an amazing game but its good to come back and good to keep the run going.[LNB] It (Howes time in charge) has gone great, but you cant count your chickens and you cant get ahead of yourself.[LNB] Its gone well but theres still a lot of work to do. But weve put ourselves in a great position.[LNB]
