MINEHEAD Blues sprang a big surprise by holding leadersTone Wasps to a goalless away draw in Division Two of the Under 12 section in the Taunton & District Youth Football League.

With Tone having lost just once all season, the odds were firmly stacked against Minehead. However, the Blues delivered what can only be described as their finest performance of the season.

The match began at a lively pace, with both teams testing each other early on. Minehead quickly showed they were not intimidated by the league leaders, moving the ball confidently around and linking up well across all areas. Tone created a couple of early opportunities, but Minehead goalkeeper Lou was in top form, dealing with each effort calmly and keeping his side level.

Encouraged by their solid start, Minehead pushed forward with purpose. Leon, playing in a slightly unfamiliar role on the right wing, drove at the Tone defence with a shot that flew just over the bar. Midfielder George twice tried his luck from distance, while defender Henry also stepped up to test the opposition goalie.

The bitterly cold morning did little to slow the action after half-time. Tone threatened again, with one effort drifting wide, another safely gathered by Lou, and a third that he had to deflect wide. Soon after, a foul on Jack gave Minehead a promising free kick just outside the box. Leon stepped up and struck the ball well, but it sailed narrowly over the crossbar.

Minehead continued to press, with substitute Karter, introduced at half-time, bringing fresh energy down the left wing. He linked up well with midfielder Jack and forwards Oaklen and Riley, delivering several dangerous balls through and over the defence.

In the closing minutes, Tone threw everything forward, but Minehead’s defensive trio of Ben, Henry, and Reuben stood resolute.

Minehead Parents & Coaches players of the match: The whole team.