MARC Pugh believes Cherries’ quality will stand them in good stead as they search for some consistency following a Jekyll-and-Hyde start to the season.

Pugh came off the bench to bag Cherries’ consolation in their 5-1 reverse at Huddersfield on Saturday – a second successive Championship defeat on the road.

The winger, who featured in the 6-1 drubbing at Watford, also started and played his part in the stirring home victories over Charlton and Wigan.

Pugh will be hoping to be involved when Cherries turn their attentions to trying to progress in the League Cup tonight in a rematch against the Hornets at Vicarage Road (7.45pm).

The 26-year-old, who sat out the first round win over Portsmouth earlier this month, told the Daily Echo: “If anyone had offered us six points from our first four games before the season started, we probably would have taken them.

“We were the better team for a spell in the first half at Huddersfield and, if we had scored while we were on top, it could have been a different story. But their second goal was a real kick in the teeth and it left us with an uphill task.

“We have got to stop leaking goals because we have got the players to create and score goals and are looking really dangerous at times. We need to tighten up and take our chances when we get them because we are getting punished for every mistake.

“We have only played four games but you can see the difference between the Championship and League One. The strikers in this division are top quality and take their chances. But we have quality as well and have shown that in spells.

“We know we need to learn – and learn quickly. We have conceded 11 goals in two away games and it doesn’t make for good reading when you see the scores in the papers. There wasn’t a huge gulf between the teams on Saturday and we need to be more resolute.”

Pugh, who was dropped to the bench at the John Smith’s Stadium as boss Eddie Howe opted for a tactical switch, added: “The team comes first and no player is bigger than the team. You have to take it on the chin and do your stuff when you get a chance.

“I got a goal and, hopefully, have given myself a shout for the Watford game. Although it was nice to get my first goal of the season, I was gutted as it didn’t count for anything because we lost.

“Everybody is looking forward to the League Cup game and we will be giving it our best shot to try to reach the third round.”

  • Pugh’s younger brother Lee Pugh made his full debut for Conference new boys Chester in their 2-1 defeat by Forest Green Rovers on Saturday.