BOURNEMOUTH'S slim hopes of sneaking top spot in Southern Premier League Division One were dashed on the final day of the season.

Lions had an outside chance of finishing first and earning promotion to the top flight in Martin Miller's last game as captain.

However, four of the five matches across the league were abandoned, including Bournemouth's, resulting in a fourth-placed finish for the Chapel Gate side.

Miller (33), Luke Matthews (33), Jake Hurley (55*) and incoming skipper Chris Park (40*) scored solidly before proceedings came to a halt in the 40th over against visitors Sarisbury Athletic. The hosts were on 190 for three at the time.

In the Premier Division. all five games were abandoned.

Bashley captain Mike Porter took three for 20 against St Cross Symondians, who moved to 258 for six before the game was stopped, handing Bash a third-placed finish.

Lymington were 175 for six at Alton, Matt Metcalfe top-scoring on 39 and opener Ryan Scott providing 35 runs of his own. The abandonment meant Lymo ended fifth.

New Milton were bowled out for 174 by South Wilts at Fernhill and finished the season in seventh.

The home side were rocking at 14 for three before recovering to some extent, helped by a knock of 31 from Joe Hall.