LEWIS Grabban revealed he was as surprised as anyone when he was presented with his latest match-winning opportunity.

After latching on to James Perch’s short backpass, the 25-year-old striker rounded Latics goalkeeper Scott Carson to slot home the game’s solitary strike.

But Grabban, who has plundered all four of Cherries’ Championship goals this season, said he was more bewildered by Carson’s hesitancy than the risky ball which sent him clear.

Grabban told the Daily Echo: “I think I was more fortunate that the goalkeeper stopped going for it because I think he would have got there if he had carried on, but to take advantage of the mistake was great.

“It is more difficult than it looks because you don’t know what is coming up behind you, who is tracking you or who is coming in late. You have just got to try to take it round the goalkeeper and finish it as quickly as possible.

“I was pleased to get another goal but, more importantly, it was another win for the team. It has been a good start for us.”

Cherries boss Eddie Howe was delighted with Grabban’s contribution.

Howe said: “He has been excellent. He was excellent for us last season, without scoring the goals that his performances deserved.

“I am really pleased that he is now getting the goals that his all-round game is deserving of. His work-rate and commitment to the cause has never been in question and he took his goal very well again.”

  • Cherries striker Brandon Goodship has agreed a one-month loan deal with Dorchester Town and made his Magpies debut in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Staines Town.

Dorchester manager Phil Simkin is delighted with the capture.

He said: “Brandon played in the second half of our pre-season friendly against them and his movement was really good.

“He has also got a bit of pace about him and is a good finisher.

“I am very grateful to AFC Bournemouth for their help.”