ILMINSTER Town saw their unbeaten start to the season come to an end at table-toppers Stockwood Green on Saturday, but manager Darren Manley was able to take plenty of positives from the match.

Manley said that three of Stockwood’s goals were “classic wonder strikes”.

“We were obviously disappointed at the end because we knew we hadn’t played as well as we can do,” he said.

“Nobody said a lot after the game and everyone went their separate ways. But I was thinking about the game more on Sunday and I really felt pleased with the way we performed.

“Admittedly it was a bad day at the office, but we created more chances from open play than they did. There were positives to be taken.”

Stockwood went 2-0 up before Nick Whaites reduced the deficit and then Ilminster piled on the pressure. Sam Maxwell hit the post and he and Scott Jennings had two chances well saved by the home keeper.

“I think the man-of-the-match was probably their keeper which sums it up really,” he said.

Stockwood made it 3-1 in the second period before Ilminster keeper Berry saved a penalty.

A fourth was added before Maxwell gained a late consolation goal for the Blues.

Ilminster entertain Paulton Rovers Reserves in the Premier/Division One Cup on Saturday at Canal Way with a 2.30pm kick-off.

“Hopefully we can get a win and be in the hat for the next round,” added Manley.