Errea County Premier

Bishops Lydeard 0, Bridgwater Town Res 2

BRIDGWATER Reserves’ manager Luke Buckingham praised the “squad effort” of his players as they extended their unbeaten run to 11 games with a derby victory at high-flying Bishops Lydeard on Saturday.

Alex Male and Callum Laird netted Town’s goals either side of half-time to end Lydeard’s run of nine straight home wins .

Buckingham said: “I was delighted with the players today. We asked them to adopt a certain style of play and the whole team executed it perfectly.

“It was a genuine squad effort and all our players kept their heads in what was a competitive local derby.

“It’s fantastic to keep our good run going but we are continuing to focus on our individual and collective performances and the results are a by-product of that.”

The sides had met just 10 days previously in a game which was dominated by Bridgwater but ended in a 2-2 draw.

Bridgwater were without captain Josh White (knee), John Matthews (hamstring), Ellis Harper (hip flexor) and Josh Champion (work), but welcomed back Rhys Hayward, Matt Redman, Tom Holder to the squad and also included new signing Harry Fitchew.

There was little to separate the teams in the early exchanges but Bridgwater went in front seven minutes in when, after good work down the left from the pacey Lee Villis, the ball broke to Alex Male on the edge of the box – and the 17-year-old lashed home a stunning volley from 18 yards.

Only minutes later, 16-year-old Charlie White was unceremoniously bundled over in the box after his good run and Bridgwater were awarded a penalty.

Kenzie Farnham stepped up to take the kick but his poorly-struck shot was easily saved by home keeper Mark Cox.

Moments into the second half Bridgwater went close to doubling their lead when Lewis Hembery’s pin-point cross found Kenzie Farnham who headed over when well placed.

With 20 minutes to go, Bridgwater got what they deserved and extended their advantage after the impressive Callum Laird finished off his powerful individual run with a neat finish.

In response, Lydeard began to lose their discipline and a flurry of poor tackles and dissent led to two red cards in the space of 10 minutes.

l Bridgwater take on league leaders Shirehampton at home on Saturday (ko 3pm).