BOURNEMOUTH Bears split their double header with Bristol Badgers, with a win and a loss in wet conditions in Ferndown.

The Triple-A Bears won 5-2, before losing 5-0, bringing their record to 3-1 in the early season.

Jose Lopez took the mound in game one for his first start of the year, throwing 102 pitches and striking out three Badgers.

Adding an enormous three-run home run in the first inning to the day's work, Lopez took the win 5-2 over the Badgers. The victory was sealed in the sixth inning with another ball hit deep over the fence by centrefielder Daniel Myrmell.

After a well fought game one, the Badgers were able to turn the tide in game two. Despite some decent striking by the Bears line up, they were unable to convert hits into runs. The Bristol defence left Bournemouth baserunners stranded and kept the home team from scoring, with an especially strong performance by the Badgers shortstop, Mattia Papini. 

A steady run at the plate meant the Badgers were able to score in the first and fourth innings, ending the day with a 5-0 victory.

The Single-A Bears enjoyed a free bank holiday weekend, but are back in action on Sunday when they host the Cardiff Merlins in Ferndown.