MIDDLEZOY Rovers Reserves had to settle for a share of the spoils on the opening day of Taunton and District League season in a 1-1 draw with Porlock at the Recreation Ground.

Regan Blake opened the scoring for Middlezoy in the first-half, but Porlock battled hard and secured a point with a goal from Tom McCarthy in the second half.

Middlezoy manager Dave Warren was pleased to come away with a point with such a young side on display.

He said: “After taking an early lead and not knowing what to expect from Porlock, we were pleased with the result.

“They came at us in the second half and we had to make a few changes due to tired legs. But the lads gave 100 per cent and I was well impressed with them.

“The goal we conceded was avoidable but we were pleased to get a point away from home.”

Blake fired Zoy into an early lead with a well-placed close-range header – and could have doubled their lead shortly after, but Scott Turner was unable to capitalise on a good chance.

McCarthy drew Porlock level early in the second half courtesy of an error from Middlezoy keeper Jordan Winter, who was dispossessed by the forward when trying to play the ball out from the back.

Mark Medley had the chance to snatch all three points for Zoy right at the death, but the game ended all square.

Porlock player/manager Dom Healey felt a draw was a fair result and praised the efforts of his depleted side.

He said: “A great result given that we had four players missing and no keeper.

“We were unlucky to go behind in the first half but deservedly pulled a goal back in the second half and could have pinched it at the end.

“Really proud of the effort and commitment everyone showed.”