A BELOW par performance from Taunton Vale first XI saw them slump to a 4-1 defeat at Bristol-based Robinsons on Saturday.

George Carson scored Vale’s only goal of the afternoon, but not before the hosts had cruised into a 4-0 lead.

The home side began the match particularly well, dominating possession - and this would become the theme of the day.

Vale were simply too weak to hold the ball under pressure and loose passes lead the home side to be two goals ahead at half-time.

With their tails between their legs, Taunton tried to turn their luck around and began the second-half well - but it was short lived.

Vale soon lost concentration and continued to watch the opposition play, leaving the defence to deal with being overloaded time after time. Robinsons went into the last phase of the match four goals ahead.

George Carson redeemed a slither of hope for Taunton after finishing a well-constructed opportunity in the opposition scoring circle.

However with only a few minutes remaining it didn't change the outcome of the match.

Vale were left disappointed with their performance and now face a tough week of training to ensure that this defeat can become a statistic.

Taunton Vale Men's II continued their excellent start to the season with a 6-2 win over Plymouth Marjon II.

The defence was organised and solid, there was good link up play with the midfield and the strikers always put Marjon's defence under pressure with movement and passing.

Vale led 3-1 at half-time and made the most of opportunities from short corners and converted - three goals from David Gibson, one goal each for Max Beale, Paul Hawkins and Sam Young.