FRESH from beating Tiverton Town on the pitch, Taunton Town are set to sign defender Nick Grimes from their local rivals.

The Peacocks defeated Tiverton 3-1 on Bank Holiday Monday, courtesy of goals from Matt Wright, Shane White and Zac Smith.

In the wake of that result, Taunton announced that "Nick Grimes is set to join The Peacocks. Subject to paperwork, Nick will make the switch from Tiverton."

Grimes, 21, came through the Exeter City youth system alongside his brother Matt – who is now at Swansea City – before going on to play for Slimbridge, Cinderford Town, Truro City and Tiverton.

Taunton head of football Rob Dray told the County Gazette: "He's one of the top centre-backs in the South West, and very well thought of.

"I had long conversations with him over the summer, we just couldn't quite get it over the line.

"But after Meaks [Michael Meaker, Taunton coach] joined us, he expressed an interest to him and we got back in touch.

"He was at the game yesterday, saw the big crowd and the immaculate pitch we have here.

"He's an ambitious young man, he wants to play in the full-time game, and we can help him get there."

Dray added: "He's got a bit of everything as a centre-back, especially given his age.

"As we play three at the back, I like to have five centre-backs in the squad, and it gives us the chance to play people in different positions.

"It's the FA Cup draw today, and we've got midweek games right through September, so we need the opportunity to freshen up the squad."