Tavistock facing acid test at Totton after devastating victory at Paulton
GAME of the day in Southern League Division One is at the Snows Stadium, where AFC Totton, who have risen to fifth, welcome promotion rivals Tavistock.
Stuart Henderson’s side moved up to third in the table on Wednesday night when a sensational spell shortly after half-time helped them to a 4-1 win at Paulton Rovers.
In-form striker Liam Prynn scored all four goals in a devastating 17 minute spell, but tomorrow promises to be a step up again as they head to a side that regularly attract gates in excess of 800.
“It’s the two form teams in the division and a massive test for us, but it’s one we are really looking forward to,” Henderson said. “They are obviously a good side, they average over 800 for each game and we will enjoy that, that’s for sure.
“That is what we are in the Southern League for, we are really enjoying it. A lot of these boys have come from Peninsula League football and they are enjoying the journey. We all get along and we will see where the season takes us.”
Henderson made a few changes for that game and with a step up in quality tomorrow, against a Totton side that are hot on the heels of Tavi, there are plenty putting their hands up to be selected for the starting XI right now.
“We played some great stuff and it was the Liam Prynn show, really,”
Henderson said. “He put the chances away, but I thought (Josh) Granty made a real contribution and set up three of the four goals.
“The first half was frantic and at half-time, we just spoke about holding our positions. I thought Adam (Macpherson) and Ben (Fowles) were trying to be everywhere, but I am delighted for them as they played really well and got 90 minutes.
“They have been patient and been on the fringes a fair bit, but it is important that they feel values and a part of it. They put in good performances and that’s what we want, they have to come in and play well when they are given the shirt. IU have some massive headaches for Saturday, that’s for sure.”
Exmouth Town’s poor run of form continued as they suffered a fifth defeat in six matches at in-form Wimborne Town on Tuesday night. Levi Landricombe’s stoppage time goal was no more than a consolation for Kevin Hill’s side, who will look to stop the rot with a trip to Larkhall Athletic tomorrow.
Bideford’s superb 3-2 win at Westbury United last week saw them climb the table and they welcome bottom club Lymington Town to the Sports Ground.
Willand Rovers host Bishops Cleeve where a win would push Russell Jees’ side back into the play-off picture.
In the Western League, there is a south East Cornwall derby to look forward to at Kimberley Park, where league leaders Saltash United welcome Millbrook.
The Ashes could only draw 1-1 at Wellington last week, which allowed Bridgwater to close the gap at the top to a point following their 2-0 success at Barnstaple Town.
Millbrook suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat at bottom club Keynsham Town last week and will be looking for a response against their high-flying neighbours.
Third-placed Mousehole will look to keep pace at the top by overcoming Ashton & Backwell United at Trungle Parc, while Helston Athletic make the trip to north Devon to take on Ilfracombe Town.
At Bickland Park, Falmouth Town welcome Sherborne Town, Barnstaple head to Street and Torpoint Athletic are at home to Wellington.