ALCOMBE Rovers are through to the final of the Taunton Saturday League's Gardner Cup after beating Dulverton Town 6-5 in a thriller at Bridgwater College.

Rovers showcased football at its finest in a heart-stopping tie between these old rivals.

The headline act was undeniably the Hall duo, with both father and son leaving an indelible mark on the game.

The rollercoaster of emotions began as Alcombe, initially strong, suffered an early setback due to a lapse in concentration, allowing Dulverton to take the lead. However, the Rovers responded with vengeance, levelling the score through Matty Ronan's precise finish.

The veteran Andy Hall then shone with a left-footed bullet into the net. Alcombe's high-energy play continued, but Dulverton remained a persistent force.

A penalty coolly converted by skipper Brian Hall put the Rovers ahead 3-1, though missed opportunities and poor decision making left Alcombe frustrated at halftime with a 3-3 deadlock.

The second half witnessed escalating intensity, with both teams fighting tooth and nail. Manager Lee Todd's tactical acumen came to the forefront when substitute Joel Floyd unleashed a wonder strike, putting Alcombe into the lead. However, a costly mistake allowed Dulverton to level the score once again at 4-4.

Youngster Floyd, determined to make a mark, showed his skills with a unique goal, falling over as he scored to put Alcombe back in front.

Todd's tactical prowess was on display once more as super sub 16-year-old ‘Hall-Star’ Oli Hall made his senior debut, linking up with his father for a dreamlike 1-2 combination with Sam Harley for Hall to finish the move with a remarkable goal making it 6-4.

The game was not over yet, howeve,r as Dulverton pressed hard, scoring in the final minute to make it 6-5.

The match left fans breathless - a testament to the sheer excitement and unpredictability of the beautiful game.