BEAMINSTER 2

MERE TOWN 1

BEAMINSTER ended Mere Town’s unbeaten record in Dorset League Division One with a 2-1 victory at the Memorial Ground.

Chances flowed early on as Rainbows’ keeper Archie Kershaw was called into two one-on-one saves before Beaminster’s Jake Rowland fired just over from 18 yards.

However, as the hosts settled, they earned their reward in the 25th minute when John Kingston’s clever flick released Robin Jones who rifled into the top corner.

Dean Newman then headed onto the crossbar and Finley Dolan shot wide as Beaminster searched in vain for 2-0.

READ MORE: Blandford Reserves 0-2 Beaminster - report

Mere finally broke down the well-disciplined Beaminster defence midway through the second half when Mere sub Jordan Porch evaded the offside trap to beat Kershaw.

Freddie Pitt-Pladdy, making his first-team debut, along with fellow teenager Jacob Stone, saw a 25-yard shot saved before Russell Legg and Jones both went close.

Beaminster then witnessed a red card for Legg, who up to that point had been immaculate in midfield.

The hosts were far from done there, though.

With two minutes of added time played, Beaminster counter-attacked and Jones provided the perfect assist for Newman to slot past the Mere keeper to spark wild celebrations.

Beaminster weathered one last chance for Mere as Ryan Sweetman made a crucial block, the Rainbows holding on for a precious win.

Post-match, Beaminster boss Murray Legg said: “Easily the most enjoyable performance whilst I have been in charge.

“The lads listened to the game plan, we kept the perfect shape and battled until the end. It would have been easy for our heads to drop after the farcical Mere equaliser but we are a different team now.

“I expect Mere to be promoted this season which makes this win even more special.

“Dane James and Sweetman, pairing up at centre-back together for the first time, were brave and well structured.

“The three in the middle controlled the game and Jones had some really special moments.

“We were missing five players which started in the 2-0 win last out against Blandford Reserves. The players that came in were brilliant. It shows the strength in depth with this squad.

“I am really pleased to be able to give Stone and Pitt-Pladdy their debut minutes with our first team.

“A great way to go into the Christmas break. The team can’t wait to get going again in January.”

Rainbows: Kershaw, Strelley, P Hill, Sweetman, James, R Legg, Newman, Dolan, Jones, Rowland, Kingston. Subs used: Mulhall, Pitt-Pladdy, Stone, Tolman. Sub not used: Gudge.

OCD Cleaning Services Beaminster man of the match: Dean Newman.