LARKHALL ATHLETIC 3 v 1 PAULTON ROVERS

Paulton were again without injured captain Dan Cleverley and striker Nick McCootie and manager Nick Bunyard may need to add to his forwards, if his team are to convert the numerous chances they created against newly promoted Southern League Division 1 South & West side Larkhall Athletic.

Brandon Barnes started brightly twice setting up Mike Bryant as well as testing Chris Snoddy in the home goal. 'The lark's pressed but Rovers defended well. Former Paulton centre half Ollie Price ensured the skilful Jon Davies was not given the room to seal his chances.

However in the thirty ninth minute started by right back Keiran Baggs found Barnes who laid a great ball into Davies feet. Davies turned and shot past Snoddy from the edge of the penalty area.

A minute from half time and Larkhall levelled. A long clearance by Price was headed goal wards by Luke Powell bring a superb save from kyle Phillips. Unable to cler their lines Powell had a second chance which Phillips parried and Rob Howe headed home.

Both sides were seeking that midfield dominated and that chance to go ahead fell to Larkhall. Josh Jeffries on as substitute was adjudged to have fouled Powell who got up to slot home the resultant penalty to make it 2-1.

With Rovers pushing for an equaliser 'The lark's' went further ahead. A loose ball bobbled around the penalty area falling to substitute Brown to drive passed Phillips to make it 3-1.

Davies tried valiantly and Rovers had some flowing moves down each wing. Sub Callum Hinder was sent down the left wing by Connor Clifford and the cross into the area caused confusion in the home defence. Davies had a free kick on the left hit the opposite post and roll across the goalmouth and out for a goal kick.

The missing thrust and final finishing touch needs to be addressed by the management team with the start of the league season at home to Cirencester Town two weeks away.

Wednesday 23 July away to Shepton Mallett K-O 7-30 pm. which is Lee Bryant's testimonial. Lee played for both club's as well as Radstock Town and Welton Rovers.

Saturday 26 July Rovers first home friendly with Southern League Division 1 South & West side North Leigh the visitors to Winterfield Road K-O 3-00 pm.

Monday A Clevedon Town and Wed or Thurs (TBC) A Bristol Manor Farm K-O 7-30 pm. Check website for updates.