PAULTON Rovers produced the performance of the day to beat leaders Brixham AFC 3-2 at home in the Premier Division of the Jewson Western League.

The opening minutes saw both teams pushing forward at every opportunity. Rovers’ first clear chance came in the 7th minute when Milo Murgatroyd tricked his way around the box before giving the ball to Dan McBeam who flashed a cross into the six yard box but Josh Nicol in the Brixham goal was able to steal the ball before Will Hailston could connect.

Brixham responded and nearly took the lead in the 16th minute when, from a corner, James Moxam smashed a header against the crossbar.

The warning wasn’t heeded and two minutes later Brixham were ahead when Sean Adderley curled the ball past Dan Jackson. Rovers continued to push forward though with Martin Lenihan and Chris Peck working well together.

The equaliser came in the 27th minute. Will Hailston was tackled on the edge of the box and the ball ran free Murgatroyd who was able to tuck the ball in.

There was some controversy in the 33rd minute when Corey Rawlings was brought down on the edge of the box by Calum Thomas. The ball ran free and Rawlings appeared to be deliberately pulled down again by Thomas. The crowd howled for a red card but the referee deemed the challenge only worthy of a yellow.

Rovers took the lead five minutes later as the pacey Rawlings fed Dan McBeam on the right, and this time Will Hailston fired past the keeper.

Brixham continued to look dangerous on the counter but Rovers’ defence, led by Jack Dancey, stood firm. Rovers nearly added a third with two quick chances as the half ended. Both Dan McBeam and Milo Murgatroyd created space for themselves to get shots away but the keeper was equal to them.

Rovers began the second half in similar style and with Murgatroyd instrumental again. He jinxed his way along the edge of the box before picking out Hailston who guided the ball into the net.

Brixham responded quickly when Charlie Johansen picked the ball up wide out and charged into the box. With the fear of giving away a penalty, he wasn’t clearly challenged and was able to fire home.

With 30 minutes to go Brixham started to ramp up the pressure. Rovers’ back line coped well though and several counter attacks could have led to goals.

Jon Green