Southern League Division One S&W

Bridgwater Town 1 Shortwood United 2

BRIDGWATER had nothing to lose or gain in Saturday’s fixture after securing their league status for the next season.

However, the Robins did look the better side for the first half and five minutes in they went close from free-kick taken by Shaun Anthony, who sent a lofty cross into Shortwood’s box but no one was there to get on the end of it.

Bridgwater had another free kick on nine minutes and this time, Conor O’Sullivan laid it off for Shaun Anthony who sent another floating cross into Shortwood’s box which again alluded everyone.

Josh Wadham had a chance on 16 minutes when he made a great individual run down the left before finding space for a cross, but again noone was able to apply the finishing touches.

Shortwood were not without chances either and on 18 minutes were denied by the crossbar.

It was Shortwood who broke the deadlock though on 28 minutes against the run of play, when Lee Meredith found the back of the net after some scrappy play in the goalmouth.

Bridgwater were reduced to ten men on 33 minutes, when a tackle from Tom Hopkins was deemed too heavy and he was issued a straight red card.

The second half was very similar to the first, although at times Bridgwater did not look like a team with one man less than Shortwood.

Ibrahima Diallo and Harry Horton showed great skill in midfield, but Shortwood added another goal to their tally when Ollie Mehew found himself in a one-on-one, with Jake Viney and put the ball in the back of the net.

Shortwood continued to apply the pressure, but the Bridgwater defence held firm, with captain Josh White taking charge and giving a great performance as he has done all season.

Josh Wadham, who had been a lone striker for most of the match, got a well deserved goal in the 84th minute when he made a superb run and pushed the ball past the keeper.

Town finish the season with a trip to Burnham on Saturday.