Somerset Premier Cup: Taunton Town 5-2 Portishead Town

TAUNTON Town have progressed into the Second Round of the Somerset Premier Cup after defeating Portishead Town at home on Tuesday (October 3).

The Peacocks were too strong on the night, winning 5-2, although it must be said that Portishead put up a strong challenge scoring two goals against the National League South leaders.

The visitors came into the match in strong form as well, as they sit atop the Toolstation Western League Division One.

Taunton put out a rotated squad for the match, with starts for Evander Grubb, Rabby Tabu, Marcus Day and Lloyd Irish in net. Irish captained the side.

From the get go the Peacocks were in control of possession and were creating plenty of chances.

Mounting pressure saw the hosts take the lead after 22 minutes when Ross Stearn’s 20 yard shot took a deflection to beat keeper George Shanks-Boon.

Portishead didn't drop their heads though and created a strong goalscoring opportunity when Feltham was through on goal, but Irish denied him with a strong save.

This was all before two goals in the final five minutes of the half provided a comfortable cushion at the break for Taunton.

Elliott Dugan won an aerial challenge with Shanks-Boon to head into an empty net on 41 minutes while a short corner saw Jay Foulston’s cross fumbled by the keeper at the near post for Dave Sims-Burgess to add a third during added time.

In the second period, it looked as though Portishead were fired up and were adopting a change in tactic.

The visitors pulled one back after 61 minutes when a low cross from the right deflected off Nick Grimes for an own goal.

But the Peacocks were quick to regain the three goal lead as Stearn added his second of the night after 69 minutes with a free kick which Shanks-Boon could only help on its way.

A deflected strike from Kyle Egan provided further satisfaction for the Western League outfit with five minutes remaining.

However the Peacocks had the last word, Marcus Day driving home from the edge of the box a minute later. A deserved goal for Day who had been in top form on the night.

The same can be said for Evander Grubb who looked strong going forward in the match.

Up next for Taunton Town is a trip to Dover Athletic on Saturday, October 7.