Shepton Mallet triumphs in dominant display against Shirehampton, securing spot in Les Phillips Cup Final
By Laura Linham
5th Mar 2024 | Football
In one of only two fixtures to proceed across Cup, Premier, and First Division matches due to recent poor weather, a remarkable turnout of 415 spectators witnessed a match that largely saw Shepton asserting dominance over First Division side Shirehampton FC.
The match quickly tilted in favour of Shepton, with Josh Jenkins delivering a stellar left-footed shot into the Shirehampton net just 9 minutes in.
The early advantage set the tone for the match, with Shirehampton players finding themselves on the receiving end of several bookings shortly thereafter, reflecting their frustration and Shepton's control of the game. Joel Sisson widened Shepton's lead just before the break, capitalising on a corner from Paul Braithwaite to make it 2-0.
Upon resumption for the second half, Shepton's stronghold continued, with Jenkins doubling his tally and Shepton's lead 8 minutes in, following a mistake from the Shirehampton goalkeeper. Substitutions at the 58-minute mark introduced fresh legs for Shepton, underscoring the squad's depth and agility.
Shirehampton managed a solitary goal in the 65th minute amid a scramble Shepton failed to clear.
However, Shepton's captain, Harry Rutter, quickly reestablished the three-goal lead five minutes later, following another set piece.
The match also saw further substitutions and a red card for Shirehampton's Luke Marshall, reducing them to ten men. Shepton continued to press, with Jacob Sloggett and Harry Rutty contributing further goals, elevating the final score to a commanding 6-1 victory for Shepton.
The match also highlighted commendable performances from Callum Gould and James Sharkey, who were jointly named Men of the Match, as chosen by the game sponsor, Rich Watts from 3 Solutions Ltd. Referee Jonathan Veale received accolades for his excellent management of the match.
This triumph ensures Shepton's place in the Les Phillips Cup Final on Sunday, 12th May at Tiverton FC, marking their consecutive final appearance in the competition. This achievement speaks volumes of the managerial prowess of Matt Saviour and Assistant Manager Matt Morris in their inaugural season, having assembled a promising young team. The attendance of injured Shepton goalkeeper Tom Roberts was a notable moment, with all wishing him a swift and complete recovery.
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