Toolstation Western League
First Division
Radstock Town 0, Chard Town 1

CHARD Town ran out winners from a well-contested match at Radstock Town, courtesy of a second-half goal scored from the penalty spot.

The visitors had the better of the first half, creating a number of chances, but could not find the home net.

Early on James Boyland was just wide from a good through ball, and a further shot on 15 minutes by Boyland was pushed out for a corner by goalkeeper Glen Murley.

With both sides looking for an opening, several efforts went wide as the defences stood firm.

Right on the half-time whistle, Radstock saw a first-time effort tipped over, Jon Hill bringing off a great save.

After the break, Ollie Pearson replaced the injured Andy Holmes.

In an effort to break the deadlock Radstock put some positive moves together, with several attacks dealt with by a resolute Chard defence, with Kieran Bailey heading away several dangerous balls in and Jon Hill making two more good saves.

On 74 minutes, substitutes Elliot Bevis and Steve Friend came on and immediately the Robins pushed forward, with the new additions troubling the home defence.

A shot by Friend from Bevis' pass was cleared off the line, while Max Westlake shot over the bar.

The decisive goal came on 80 minutes, when Bevis was pulled back in the penalty area, and the subsequent spot-kick was coolly put away by Pearson - having felt unwell on the bench, he ended up scoring the winner!

This was a well-earned three points, the victory being Chard’s fourth consecutive win.

Chard manager Paul Down described the victory at Radstock as "hard fought, played in right spirit, with both sides trying to play football".

He added: "Each team had chances, with Jon Hill making two good saves in the Chard goal and James Boyland going closest for Chard.

"We edged the first half, but Radstock were better after the break, until the introduction of strikers Steve Friend and Elliott Bevis forced them back."

Chard Town: Jon Hill, Ben Haines, Patrick Golden, Andrew Holmes (Ollie Pearson 46), Kieran Bailey, Ryan Parris, Max Westlake, Matthew Howell (Elliot Bevis 74), Jack Dicker, James Boyland, Liam Cleal (Stephen Friend 74). Sub not used: Stuart Parris

Chard now start a run of four matches in eight days, to complete their Toolstation Western League First Division campaign, starting with a home clash with fourth-placed Cheddar on Wednesday (ko 7.30pm).

In Macron Devon & Exeter League Division 1, Chard Reserves are away to league leaders Colyton on Wednesday (ko 7pm).