Evo-Stik South West

Cirencester 0, Taunton Town 2

TAUNTON Town's new striker Lewis Powell struck a brace on his debut as the Peacocks defeated Cirencester on the opening day of the Evo-Stik South West season.

The frontman, who was brought in from Mangotsfield over the summer for his second spell with the Peacocks, gave the visitors the lead on 13 minutes when he latched on to a Shane White through ball and slotted past the goalkeeper.

Leigh Robinson's men held the lead until half-time and survived some nervy moments in the second period, with Lloyd Irish called into action to deny Whitehead from close range.

Powell made the game safe with 14 minutes to play, turning and firing into the net from inside the area to double his side's advantage.

The hosts were reduced to 10 men in the closing stages as Aidan Bennett saw red for serious foul play, leaving the Peacocks to see out a superb away win with a minimum of fuss.

Next up for Town is the visit of Mangotsfield on Tuesday night (7.45pm).