FOOTBALL: Combe back to winning ways (From Chard & Ilminster News)

FOOTBALL: Combe back to winning ways

10:30am Wednesday 22nd February 2012 in Sport

COMBE St Nicholas bounced back from the disappointment of their abandoned match with Portishead Town Reserves the previous weekend to record an emphatic 4-2 victory over Long Ashton in Division Two West of the Errea Somerset County League.

With the main ground still suffering from last week’s game, Combe were forced to play on their second pitch but this didn't seem to affect the way in which they dealt with the opposition.

All three of Combe’s goals in the first half were similar in nature as the away side failed to clear their lines from crosses.

Firstly a cross from the right by Matt Brown eventually found its way to Paul Stoodley who showed an experienced head as he lobbed the keeper and defender on the line from the edge of the area.

Ben Haines has found good form since moving up front and it was his volley that doubled their advantage following good work by Adam Tovery.

Combe continued to press and scored their third shortly before half time when Scott Wells-Burr drove in a Gary Warren corner.

The second half started poorly for the home side as a hopeful ball over the top was latched onto by the away striker who drove in from close range.

Combe re-established their advantage soon after when Stoodley picked up a loose ball and coolly slotted past the advancing keeper.

Combe were indebted to great defending from Darren Brown throughout with some timely interceptions and clearances.

The away side pegged a goal back from close range late on but Combe comfortably saw the game out for a much-needed three points.

With rivals Banwell losing, the promotion race looks set to be tightly contested.

Combe: J Hutchings, Sc. Wells-Burr, D Brown, Sh. Wells-Burr, Warren (M Redwood 70), P Stoodley, D Hutchings, M Brown, Tovey, Haines, Collins (Finn 70). Unused sub: Oliver.