ALCOMBE Rovers returned to action after playing just two games in as many months and showed no signs of rust, producing an impressive 6–1 away victory over Middlezoy Rovers in Division One of the Taunton Saturday League.

The visitors started brightly, moving the ball well from the opening whistle. Their early intent was rewarded inside the first 10 minutes when player-manager Brian Hall showed striker’s instinct to open the scoring. Rovers doubled their advantage soon after as top scorer Nathan Collins beat the keeper with a well-placed finish.

Middlezoy responded with determination and pulled a goal back with a fine strike to make it 2–1, but Alcombe quickly reasserted control. Excellent link-up play between Josh Bruford, Sam Harley, and skipper Mike Graddon kept the pressure on, and it was Bruford who finished clinically after being released by Harley to restore the two-goal cushion at 3–1.

Middlezoys continued to play some good football and tested the Alcombe defence and goalkeeper on several occasions, but Charlie Disney produced an outstanding display at the back. Collins then struck again, smashing home his second of the match to extend the lead to 4–1.

Alcombe finished the half strongly. With Graddon, Toren Eldridge, and Disney standing firm defensively, the visitors remained solid, and moments before the break Sam Harley unleashed a superb 35-yard strike into the top corner to make it 5–1 at half-time.

The second half saw Middlezoy apply pressure and refuse to give up, but Alcombe’s spirit and organisation kept them at bay. Youngster Jayden Payton struck the crossbar, while Liam Thorne was influential in midfield, winning second balls and keeping things tight.

With the final kick of the game, Harley delivered another quality cross, which Hall met to score his second and complete a convincing victory.

Joint Man of the Match: Charlie Disney, Sam Harley.