Toolstation Western League: Nailsea & Tickenham 1-3 Shepton Mallet

Nailsea & Tickenham were beaten at home at the weekend by a strong and improving Shepton Mallet side.

The match in the Toolstation Western League finished 1-3 in favour of the visitors as they made the most of their chances.

The Swags battled hard throughout the game however were unable to convert some of the clear chances they had.

Their sole goal was scored by Luke Osgood and it was a fine finish but as said already, Shepton were the deserved winners.

Despite the defeat, chairman Rob Gregory Gregory discussed the goals and plans at the club for the remainder of the 2023/24 season.

"2024 remains an exciting year for us and one of consolidation. Over the last two seasons, we have created an expectation for our supporters, players and management who have been used to seeing lots of goals and on the pitch success and this now has created our biggest challenge yet," he said.

"The step up to the premier division is a huge one which we accept and are delighted to have achieved this.

"However, we have to now take some deep breaths, keep our feet firmly on the ground and look to finish in a credible position in the first year."

He added that the season has been one filled with lessons so far for the club as they take on a number of bigger and more established (at this level) clubs.

I have learnt a lot this year from visiting some big well established clubs to see their set ups and how they are run and this is important," he said.

"Some are good and others, whilst great on the pitch, lack in other areas. I constantly hear complaints about the geography of the Premier Division and travel costs etc my view is that, you take on whatever comes with the territory and this is all part of playing at the highest level you can, whilst also ensuring sustainability!"

He finished by saying the club is enjoying the challenge and will look forward to creating many more great memories for the town.

"It’s a journey the whole of Nailsea & Tickenham FC will continue to relish and I look forward to us creating more great occasions for the town."