TAUNTON Town's head of football Rob Dray said "we needed that", after Yeovil Town took the spoils in Tuesday night's all-Somerset friendly clash at the Cygnet Health Care Stadium.

The Peacocks were largely on top in the first half, but two second-half goals from Rhys Murphy handed the National League side a 2-0 win.

READ MORE: Taunton Town 0-2 Yeovil Town as it happened

Dray told the County Gazette: "It was a very hot night, and we switched off from two restarts, which cost us the two goals.

"But we needed that, after the wins we've had [up to this point in pre-season] – we got more out of that game.

"We tailed off in the last 20 minutes, but our players had been working all day, and [Yeovil's] full-time training was evident.

"Overall I was pleased; we were outstanding in the first half and moved the ball well.

"Out of possession we worked really hard as a group.

"Their manager [Darren Sarll] said we were their toughest test so far, and the fact they brought such a strong team shows they took it seriously."

The Peacocks now look ahead to playing League two side Exeter City tomorrow (ko 7.15pm), a quick turnaround which Dray admits will be difficult for his players.

"We're going to be tired on Thursday, and it will be hot again," he said.

"We will rotate [players] as much as we can, but we have a small squad, and it's all about our levels and sharpness."

That match will be followed by the Somerset Premier Cup final next Tuesday (ko 7.45pm), facing Weston-super-Mare at Weston's Optima Stadium.

The fixture was switched from the end of last season (due to Taunton being in the play-offs) to the start of this one, and Dray added: "It's a funny one.

"These cup finals don't come up very often, and the players and management all want to win it, just like any game.

"But it will be nice to have a look at them [ahead of facing them in the Southern League this season].

"The lads will have the weekend off, and then we go again."