Toolstation Western League

First Division

Chard Town 3, Calne Town 1

CHARD Town gained their first victory in almost three months, as they saw off top-half rivals Calne Town at Zembard Lane on Saturday.

The Robins had gone 10 games without a win since beating Chippenham Park in January, but they thoroughly deserved the three points against Calne, showing grit and great character throughout the match.

It was the visitors who made the early running, moving the ball around well before taking the lead in the 14th minute, Joe Williamson getting in behind the Chard defence and finishing with an accurate shot in off the far post.

But that advantage lasted only nine minutes, as Liam Cleal was hacked down in the box and Ollie Pearson stepped up to score from the penalty spot.

It remained 1-1 at half-time, and after the break Steve Friend blazed over for the Robins, while Robert Mitchell's effort grazed the post at the other end.

The hosts went ahead on 55 minutes, Elliot Dyer sending in a high cross to the far post, Ben Haines heading it into the goalmouth and Tom Salter timing his run to score with a poacher's finish.

The contest was a gripping one, with some full-blooded challenges, and Harry Myles and William Boakes both went close for Calne.

But the Robins moved into a two-goal lead with 11 minutes to go, as Salter whipped in a super cross and Friend, leaning backwards, expertly guided the ball into the corner of the net.

This was a fine team display from Chard, with Salter particularly effective in midfield and Ben Haines – battling on with his head bandaged up after sustaining a wound – epitomised the fighting spirit shown on the day.

Chard Town: Scott Wells-Burr, Elliot Dyer, Ollie Pearson, Andrew Holmes, Kieran Bailey, Ben Haines, Max Westlake, Nathan Warren, Steve Friend (Dan Collins 85), Liam Cleal, Tom Salter.

Subs not used: Alex Harper, Brad Loaring, James Close.

Sixth in the First Division table – one point ahead of Calne and one behind Longwell Green Sports – Chard go to Portishead Town on Tuesday night (ko 7.30pm) for a rearranged fixture, and then host Chippenham Park next Saturday (ko 3pm).