Evo-Stik South West

Shortwood United 1, Taunton Town 2

TAUNTON TOWN survived a late red card to defeat Shortwood United 2-1 and continue their winning start in Evo-Stik South West.

A goal early in each half gave the Peacocks a comfortable advantage, but Matt Villis' sending off allowed Shortwood to pull a goal back from the spot and ensured Leigh Robinson's men had to battle hard to see out the victory.

The Peacocks began the game on the front foot and, after Arran Pugh had seen an early header cleared off the line, Ryan Brett broke the deadlock for the visitors when he converted Lewis Powell's eighth minute cross.

Captain Matt Wright could have doubled the lead 10 minutes later but couldn't convert a one-on-one after being put through by Ross Staley, who then won a penalty with half-time approaching.

Powell stepped up but saw his effort saved by the Shortwood goalkeeper as the advantage stayed at just the one goal, with Wright putting a close range header over as the half drew to a close.

Nerves were settled just three minutes into the second half when Pierce Mitchell arrived late at the back post to double Town's advantage, but it was far from a stroll in the park thereafter.

Shortwood halved the deficit from the spot with 18 minutes to play after Villis was sent off for a challenge on Levi Cox, who picked himself up to convert the penalty and ensure a tense finale.

Despite being a man light, Taunton were able to close out their third consecutive league victory and maintain their 100% record across all competitions this season.

Next up for the Peacocks is the visit of Paulton Rovers on Monday (3pm).

Taunton Town: Irish, Mitchell, Brett, Pugh, Villis, Chamberlain, Adelsbury, White, Wright (Afful), Powell (Mehew), Staley (Trowbridge).