LAST Saturday saw the long-awaited home fixture between Minehead and Paulton Rovers, with the hosts knowing that a win would secure second place in Division One of the Under 13 section in the Somerset Girls Football League.

The game started brightly, with both teams working hard to settle into the match and showing great energy from the first whistle. In the 15th minute, however, Paulton took the lead from a free kick.

Minehead refused to let their heads drop and put together some excellent passages of play and soon found themselves back on level terms as the sides went into half time 1-1.

The second half saw both teams battling hard and it was Paulton’s pressure that paid off to retake the lead. Minehead continued to work tirelessly, competing for every loose ball, defending strongly and continuing to create chances going forward.

Their determination and display of football paid off in the 45th minute when some excellent link-up play resulted in a one to one with Paulton’s keeper and Minehead’s striker, who netted a well deserved equaliser.

With only minutes remaining, both teams dug deep and continued to battle. However, with just two minutes left to play, Minehead had the decisive moment. A dangerous corner into the box resulted in a deflection and the fifth goal of the game and, when the final whistle blew, it was Minehead who celebrated taking all three points with a thrilling 3-2 victory.

The result concludes the team’s final game as Under 13s and secures runners-up spot in the division, just two points from the top.

This was a tremendous achievement and one that reflects the team’s hard work, commitment and determination throughout the season. Every player should be incredibly proud of what they have accomplished, and the coaches couldn’t be prouder and look forward to seeing what the team can achieve next season.