Marvin backs Cherries to mix power with flair (From Thisisdorset)

Marvin backs Cherries to mix power with flair

7:00am Friday 3rd September 2010 in

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POWERHOUSE midfielder Marvin Bartley highlighted the importance of Cherries’ brawn and brains combination and then insisted: “We can mix it with the best of them.”

Bartley has been a central figure in Cherries’ impressive start to the League One season and has produced a string of all-action displays.

The former non-league star has forged a strong pairing alongside Anton Robinson in the Cherries engine room – and he believes the team’s physical capabilities have helped them settle into the third tier.

While attacking players such as Liam Feeney, Marc Pugh and Josh McQuoid have caught the eye with their flair, Bartley thinks the team’s ability to put in the hard yards has also been a crucial factor in their progression.

The fans’ favourite will be hoping to continue his form when Cherries visit Huddersfield Town tomorrow (3pm).

And discussing the Dean Court outfit’s attributes, he told the Echo: “I think we’ve got a physical team and everyone is really mobile, which I think helps a lot.

“Some teams in League Two weren’t as mobile as us and I think some teams in League One aren’t as mobile as us. As long as we keep working hard for each other, I think we’ll do fine.

“I think we’ve got a great balance at the moment. Pugh and Feeney on the wings, on their day, will go past any full-backs, so it’s a real help when you can give them the ball and let them do their thing. We’ve got the physical boys, as well, who are able to mix it up.

“I think a few years back Bournemouth were renowned for a team that could get bullied and who you could roll over. But a lot’s changed since then and I think we can mix it with the best of them now.

“A few of the boys love a tackle – me being one – and we’re very physical now. We go to other teams now and roll them over, rather than the other way round.”

With boss Howe recruiting new players during the summer, former Hampton and Richmond player Bartley revealed that the sight of a full bench was spurring him on.

“Danny Hollands, Joe Partington and Harry Arter all want to start as well, so it’s good competition for places and I think it’s bringing out the best in everyone,” said Bartley.

“I’m getting my head down and working hard in games and, hopefully, I’ll keep my place in the team.

“When you look across at the bench and see good players that play in your position and are able to replace you, it spurs you on that little bit.

“I’m working hard, and Anton’s working hard as well, to keep his place in the team. It would be the same if I was on the bench – I’m sure Danny, Harry or Joe would be working hard as well to keep their place.

“It’s good rivalry but we’re all getting on well.”