ALCOMBE Rovers gained a 3-0 away win over Minehead Reserves in Division One of the Taunton & District Saturday League. Despite missing a couple of players and carrying injuries, Alcombe showed their class, composure, and togetherness to secure a commanding victory. Minehead began strongly, controlling early possession and testing Alcombe’s defensive discipline. However, it was the visitors who struck first through a well-executed set piece. Sam Harley’s pinpoint delivery found Toren Eldridge, who powered home a bullet header at the far post just 10 minutes in to open the scoring. Minehead continued to move the ball confidently, but Alcombe grew into the game, with midfielders Liam Thorne and Luke Hill dictating the tempo and breaking up play superbly. Strikers Cam Thompson and Josh Bruford both went close to extending the lead before half-time.

The second half saw Minehead press high in search of an equaliser, but Alcombe’s defensive unit — Mike Graddon, Beau Winters, Toren Eldridge, and Charlie Disney — stood firm, while goalkeeper Carl Paige commanded his area with authority. On the counter, Alcombe looked dangerous, and it was Luke Hill who unlocked the defence with a clever through ball to Cam Thompson, who finished clinically to make it 2–0. A special moment followed when New Zealander Luke Badcock made his long-awaited return after 407 days out through injury, earning warm applause from both sets of supporters. His composure in midfield helped Alcombe take full control. The visitors sealed the win late on through another slick passing move, Hill combined with Brian Hall, played a precise ball through to Thompson, who slotted home his second of the match to secure a well-deserved victory. Under their management trio, Alcombe are handily placed in fourth spot. Alcombe thank club sponsors: Bar 21, Fitness Station, Nicholls & Sons Plumbing & Heating; Match Day Sponsor: Influence Co. Man of the Match (sponsored by Vladsi Pizza): Luke Hill.