PAULTON ROVERS 2 RADSTOCK TOWN 1 (AET)

Rovers dominated the opening exchanges but for all their possession and pressure they failed to break a resolute Radstock defence in a goalless first half.

Kane Simpson almost gave the hosts a 1st minute lead but the final shot failed to match his approach work, while Kailan Gould shot straight at the keeper and Josh Ford sent a header wide. Radstock’s first chance saw Tom Golledge’s header, from Josh Witcombe’s 27th minute free kick, saved by Andrew Hannah. Minutes later and Dan Nolan in the visitors’ goal did well to save a fierce drive from Nathan Legge. The half ended with Legge getting caught in possession in midfield and a ball forward saw Craig Wilson go clear only to be denied by Hannah diving bravely at his feet.

The visitors began the second period much the better with Wilson and skipper, Tom Stocks, going close with headers before deservedly taking a 55th minutes lead when Wilson's 20 yard shot was only parried by Rovers' keeper, Andrew Hannah and the Radstock striker was first to react and tuck the ball into the bottom corner of the net.

Town had two great chances to extend their lead, both falling to Simon Millard, but on both occasions he failed to hit the target.
Rovers' fortunes changed with the introduction of substitute, Will Hailston and his run past several defenders ended when he was brought down in the penalty area on 74 minutes. He got up to send keeper, Dan Nolan the wrong way and level the tie.
Both sides had opportunities to win in normal time as Hailston continued to cause the visitors defence problems, whilst Golledge shot straight at Hannah after more good work from Wilson.

Then in the 6th minute of injury time Hailston linked up with Solomon Wheatley, down the right, before collecting a pass, turning and firing home at the near post.

With both sides tiring in the difficult conditions Radstock full back, Luke Ingram saw his shot find the side netting but in the second period of extra time it was a poor header from him that almost produced a decisive third goal as Simpson beat Nolan to the ball but it wide of the post.

Rovers held on to earn a place in the next round but will be relieved their opponents finishing left a lot to be desired.

Rovers: Andrew Hannah, Elliott Keightley, Matthew Long, Alex Grimshaw, Josh Ford (C), Ian Parkes (Will Hailston 66 mins), Solomon Wheatley, Nathan Legge, George Brimson (Elliott Gibbons 75 mins), Kane Simpson, Kailan Gould (Corey Rawlings 113 mins). Subs not used: Sam Stoppard, Adam Mahmood.

Man of the Match: Craig Wilson (Radstock Town)

Rovers’ Star Man: Will Hailston

Match report from Andy Harris