Somerset County League Premier Division
Ilminster Town 4, Clutton AFC 1

ILMINSTER Town welcomed Clutton AFC to the Archie Gooch Pavilion on Saturday and, with both teams on 12 points, a close match was predicted, writes Andy Fish.

With Storm Brian delivering strong winds it was never going to be an easy day for football, but the Blues started well with Brad Pitman having a good chance and his brother Ben's shot flying wide.

Clutton were now coming more into the match and had a great chance to take the lead on the half hour, but their striker failed to trouble Chris May as his shot went wide from the edge of the area.

Ilminster were next on the attack with Taylor Jefferson denied by a fine tackle, but the same player then netted the opener as he headed home Tom Sullivan's corner.

Within two minutes it was 2-0 as, after the keeper made a mistake, Sullivan and Charlie Rutter combined to find Brad Pitman inside the penalty box and the youngster smashed it home.

With Rutter coming off at half time due to an ankle injury, Doug Whitfield came on at centre half to replace Adam Male who pushed up to lead the line.

The second half began with Clutton having the advantage of the wind, and the visitors were soon on the attack as a high ball caused problems in the Ilminster area.

Chris May tried to punch the ball clear but collided with his brother Jonny and got no distance on it, leaving the Clutton striker to hook the ball home.

Ilminster responded well and a quick throw in from Karl Davis found Adam Male, who crossed for Jefferson to slot home from close range.

May had to be at his best when pushing over a shot from deep and keeping out a one on one, but the points were made safe when Jefferson won a free kick 25 yards out and Male hit an absolute screamer that arrowed into the net.

Male has been fantastic this season playing in a number of different positions, and his team mates rushed to congratulate him after his wonder goal that was well deserved for another good display.

Ilminster: Chris May, Luke Paul, Karl Davis, Adam Male, Jon May, Brad Pitman, Jack Male, Tom Sullivan, Ben Pitman, Taylor Jefferson, Charlie Rutter

Subs used: Andre Anjos, Doug Whitfield, Richard Crabb

NEXT week the Blues are away to Stockwood Green (ko 3pm).

The new look Reserve team under newly appointed manager Andrew Male are home in the Devon & Exeter Division 5 against Culm United (ko 3pm).