AFTER a longer-than-planned layoff, Alcombe Rovers were finally back in action as they welcomed a strong Minehead Reserves’ side for a highly anticipated local derby in Division One of the Taunton Saturday Football League - and the result was a 4-1 win for the visitors.

Rovers could not have asked for a better start. Inside the opening three minutes, slick link-up play between Josh Bruford and Nathan Collins carved Minehead open, with Collins applying the final touch to put Alcombe 1–0 ahead and send the home supporters into early celebration.

Alcombe moved the ball sharply, zipped it around confidently, and dominated possession throughout the opening half hour. The tempo was high, the football was positive, and Rovers looked in control.

Minehead did grow into the game and created a few dangerous moments, but goalkeeper Carl Paige was outstanding, producing a number of key saves to keep Alcombe in front at the break.

The second half, however, brought a dramatic shift in momentum.A five-week break appeared to catch up with Rovers, and Minehead struck the equaliser within two minutes of the restart following a brief lapse in defensive concentration. That goal lifted the visitors, who immediately raised their intensity and netted a second just minutes later.

From then on, Minehead stepped up another level, dictating play and showcasing their first-team experience and superior fitness. Despite Alcombe’s efforts to battle back into the contest, players will need to learn quickly and improve fitness levels, Minehead added two more goals to seal the game.

Alcombe Man of the Match:Mike Graddon — for an outstanding all-round performance, commitment, and leadership.

Alcombe thanks sponsors Bar 21 - fitness station & Nichols Plumbing & Sons A big thank you to all our sponsors for their continued support — your backing makes days like this possible and helps keep the club moving forward, both on and off the pitch.