Nicholls Returns as Cobblers Well Beaten

Last updated : 27 August 2014 By County Ground

The Championship side effectively sealed the tie in the opening half-an-hour as Gosling and Pitman netted.

The Cobblers improved after the break without threatening their hosts too much but the travelling 332 fans did have one highlight to remember as Alex Nicholls entered the fray as a 75th minute substitute to mark his long-awaited return from injury.

Callum Wilson wrapped up proceedings for the hosts with 11 minutes remaining and manager Chris Wilder had few complaints afterwards.

"Bournemouth were really good and we struggled to hold onto them," he said.

"We had a couple of opportunities and I was pleased with our performance in the second half.

"We were a bit more positive in our approach in the second half but Bournemouth were the better side and we hold our hands up to that."