Newton Abbot missed out on the opportunity to make up significant ground on the only two sides that can realistically be caught in order to avoid relegation.

Defeat at Bournemouth earned yet another losing bonus point – the 11th of the season – but with Old Centralians and Dings Crusaders both losing, a chance went begging.

The All Whites went ahead after 11 minutes through fly-half Rob Avery Wright, who kicked a penalty after failing with an earlier attempt.

The home side responded with ten points in the space of five minutes, all the work of Grant Hancox – the centre scoring a self-converted try and then adding a penalty.

Avery-Wright put over a second penalty to leave Newton trailing 10-6 at the break.

Hancox then increased his tally with a penalty which was cancelled out by Avery-Wright’s third.

As Newton tried to push on for what would have been a vital win, they were handicapped by two yellow cards. Player/coach Colin Stewart was the first to go for off-side. Then, as he returned, prop Matt Dowrick took his place in the bin for a similar offence.

Being shorthanded for 20 minutes of the last 25 turned out to be crucial.

Bournemouth scored a try by flanker Alan Manning which Hancox converted for a 20-9 lead.

Once restored to full-strength, Newton finished strongly with a try from winger Kyle Browne in the 78th minute earning a bonus point, but nothing else, making the final score 20-14.

The All Whites now have only three games left to save their place in National Three South & West.

In theory, a full house of wins should suffice, but if Dings and Old Centralians also win, Newton’s efforts could be in vain.

While Newton welcome Hornets to Rackerhayes (kick-off 2.30pm) tomorrow, Dings host Lydney and Old Centralians travel to Ivybridge.

The following weekend, Newton are at basement club Chippenham, Dings are at Bournemouth and Old Centralians host Brixham.

Hopefully, by the time Old Centralians visit Rackerhayes on April 30, the All Whites will still have something to play for. A win for Ivybridge against Dings on the last day could help the cause.