MINEHEAD Blues showed great determination as they fought back from two goals down to earn a deserved 2-2 point at home against Kingsdown Knights in Division Two of the Under 12 section of the Taunton & District Youth League.

Minehead started well and created the majority of the chances in the first half. In the 10th minute, midfielder Finley had an early effort that drifted wide, before Leon tested the Knights’ goalkeeper with a well-struck shot that was smartly saved. Defender Riley also went close, firing wide as Minehead continued to press.

Kingsdown had moments of threat, including a 12th-minute free kick that forced Minehead keeper Lou into a confident save. Minehead responded through forward Oaklen, whose long-range effort rattled the crossbar, while Leon again went close only to be denied by the Knights’ keeper. Despite two further Knights attempts, Lou remained solid between the posts.

Against the run of play, Kingsdown took the lead when a corner caused confusion in the Minehead box and was bundled over the line.

Minehead looked to respond immediately, with Leon seeing another free kick saved, but a late defensive mistake allowed the Knights to capitalise and double their lead.

The second half began with renewed energy from Minehead, as the ball bobbled around dangerously in the Knights’ penalty area, though a finishing touch proved elusive. The breakthrough finally came when George controlled the ball superbly and fired home to make it 2–1.

Momentum swung firmly in Minehead’s favour moments later. A Leon free kick from just outside the box was deflected into the path of Finley, who calmly slotted past the Knights’ goalkeeper to level the scores.

Minehead pushed hard in search of a winning goal, applying sustained pressure, but were unable to find the decisive third.

Kingsdown Parents players of the match: George and Henry; Coaches player of the match: Oaklen