Friendly: Uphill Castle 1-3 Minehead AFC

Minehead visited their County League Premier Division opponents from a couple of seasons ago at Weston Super Mare’s Astro Turf pitch and though hindered by rain which became quite heavy during the second half, a well contested and interesting game ensued, writes Brian Walder.

Missing three or four of the likely first team squad who were unavailable, The Blues still fielded a strong side including a handful of teenagers who deserve to also be involved in the first XI squad.

During an even first half hour both sides looked bright and good on the ball, with Minehead slightly edging play. Bringing on substitutes to bolster the side, Minehead then dominated the final ten minutes of the half and took the lead when Joe Wilkinson headed home strongly at the far post from Louis Burge’s perfect centre.

The second half saw The Blues growing further in confidence with their passing keeping them largely in control of their higher league opponents, but a set back during the hosts’ best spell of the match around the hour mark when Burge’s last-ditch challenge was adjudged by the referee as an infringement, and Ethan Reed’s spot kick levelled the scores.

Minehead were soon edging play again and a superb 25-yard strike from Sam Heath arrowed straight into the top corner as a serious goal of the season contender. Following a period of attacking from the hosts, a good save by Freddie Harvey-Larmar from a firm 20-yard shot kept his side in front.

Then another batch of changes saw Manager Craig Carr once more move personnel around and prolonged pressure inside the home penalty area saw well-struck shots from both Leon Lofts and Toby Waghorn blocked, but Olly Prescott was on hand to slam home after the second rebound to make the game safe at 3-1.

With the County League season starting with a home game on Saturday August 10th against one of the promotion favourites Middlezoy Rovers Reserves, Craig Carr should be pleased with the way his new-look side is gelling.

Minehead: Freddie Harvey-Larmar, Louis Burge, Ollie Hall, George Painter, Ryan Wilkins, Sam Heath, Sam Jackson, Hubi Wejnerowski, Leon Lofts, Joe Wilkinson, Olly Prescott

Subs: Will Singleton-Voss, Josh Elston, Toby Waghorn, Stefan Phillips (All Used)

Man of the Match: Sam Heath