KEY pair Russ Perrett and Josh Gowling look set to be handed the opportunity to develop their embryonic partnership.

The defensive duo's relationship was broken up when Perrett tore his right hamstring in the disastrous home draw against Northampton Town on September 15, the same game that condemned fellow front-line defenders Ryan Garry and Warren Cummings to the treatment table with long-term injuries.

But the Perrett-Gowling pairing, which had shown signs of blossoming into a strong partnership in the season's early stages, is set to get another chance to impress in today's reserve team clash against Bristol Rovers at Dean Court (2pm).

"Josh is looking at probably a half or maybe just over and we'd like Russ to get as long as he can," reserve team boss Eddie Howe told the Daily Echo.

And a decent showing from Gowling and Perrett for the second string would give Kevin Bond a timely boost.

The Cherries boss has found himself terribly short of natural defenders in recent weeks, meaning Shaun Cooper has had to play out of position alongside Portsmouth loanee Marc Wilson at the heart of the back four.

"It's important for Russ to get as much match time (as possible) to get in contention for Saturday," said Howe.

"It helps they've played together this season and they did very well, although all too briefly until Russ pulled his hamstring."

With their many defensive casualties, leaking soft goals has been a problem for Cherries this season and it was no different against League One high-fliers Swansea City as they went down 4-1.

"We conceded some poor goals on Sunday from our point of view," admitted Howe.

"In general play I thought we did okay and created chances but it was the same old story - not taking a chance then getting punished at the other end.

"There were some positives but we got beaten 4-1, so that won't gloss over fundamental mistakes."

Assistant manager Rob Newman, a veteran defender of more than 650 league appearances with the likes of Bristol City and Norwich City, will also play in defence, with goalkeeper Gareth Stewart getting an outing between the sticks.

Howe also confirmed that there could be up to three trialists taking part in the match.

And star winger Max Gradel could play a part if he is back from compassionate leave.

  • Meanwhile, after a four-year wait, it will be lights, camera, action for Cherries in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy against MK Dons.

Having failed to grace Dean Court with their presence since the dire goalless draw against Bristol City back in September 2003, Sky Sports will cover the Trophy area quarter-final against Paul Ince's high-flying League Two side.

Cherries chief executive Laurence Jones declared himself "absolutely delighted" at the news.

"We get £10,000 so that's welcome funds for the club," Jones told the Daily Echo.

"Every penny counts in this club and it's really good for us."