Paulton over come Shepton

SOMERSET PREMIER CUP 2nd ROUND

Paulton defeated Shepton Mallet with a hard fought victory.

Rovers opened the scoring on 43 minutes through Josh Jeffries and Dan Cottle added a second with a superb strike on the hour mark.

Subs 18 years old Joe Vyner and James Billing combined after eighty two minutes for the later to make it 3-0.

Two minutes later Shepton pulled one back when George Carey broke down the left to give Lucas Ward an easy tap in.

With a minute left a superb run from Ben Lacey down the right wing saw him find James Billing who laid the ball across the goal to Brandon Barnes to make it 4-1.

Josh Brigham made a sound Paulton debut at right back following his move from Frome Town, whilst 17 years old Dan Cottle who played an hour coming on as an early substitute for the injured Mike Perrott was awarded sponsors man of the match for a fine display.

Former Paulton youth team player Adam Garlick pulled off several fine saves in the Shepton goal. There was a cameo appearance for the visitors by Ben Cleverley. However Rovers captain his brother Dan was unable to oppose him, as his wife Laura is imminently expecting their second child.

Shepton managed by former Paulton boss Andy Jones would certainly rank higher than several Southern League sides Rovers have played this season.

For Paulton manager Nick Bunyard the pleasing thing was that his squad contained four players eighteen and under.

Paulton Rovers - Kyle Phillips, Josh Brigham, Ollie Price, Scott Brice (C), Marcus Mapstone, Brandon Barnes Mike Perrott (sub Dan Cottle 32 mins), Ben Lacey, Josh Jeffries, Josh Klein-Davies (James Billing 62), Dan Cleverley (C), Nick McCootie (Joe Vyner 63).

Subs not used - Sam Clift, Paddy Doyle

Sponsor-Malcome Powney man of the match Dan Cottle (Paulton Rovers)