Shepton Mallet 2, Burnham United 1

Shepton Mallet 2, Burnham United 1

BURNHAM were able to name an unchanged starting 11 looking to build on last week's performance but got off the worst possible start conceding a scrappy goal following a free kick in the first three minutes.

This seemed to knock their confidence and for a long period they were unable to secure any meaningful possession.

Despite this Bitton and Leaf were causing problems for the opposition defence with their skill and pace.

After half time and a few changes to strategy Burnham were on the front foot and now started to maintain meaningful possession. The back four of Cannard, Bidgood, Holley and Ell Lamb were now playing higher up the pitch were looking comfortable.

Will Lamb had a well-placed shot hit past him as Shepton took a 2-0 lead but Burnham soon halved the deficit as Holley was bundled over in the box for a penalty and Ell Lamb dispatched the spot kick superbly.

The last 20 minutes was one way traffic and Burnham were camped in the opposition half but just could not snatch an equaliser despite numerous goal mouth scrambles and shots cleared or blocked.

Man-of-the Match: James Cannard for an excellent defensive performance Manager Luke Hussey said: “I am frustrated with the result because it doesn't reflect the performance.

“We have to take some positives from the match and I was pleased at the commitment from the team for the 90 minutes.”