Minehead AFC kicked off their 2026/27 Somerset County League Division One season with a narrow victory over Isle of Wedmore.
The match was a first-ever encounter between the two sides at The Rec, with the visitors, riding high on back-to-back promotions, expected to pose a significant challenge.
However, Lee Todd's side seemed up for the task from the start.
A three-figure crowd gathered to watch the Blues' season opener.
A debut was handed to bagsman Cam March, who had impressed in pre-season friendlies.
New signing Lewis Smith was also on the bench.
Minehead wasted no time in getting on the scoresheet.
Just four minutes in, last season's top scorer Toby Waghorn's effort was partially blocked by visiting keeper Tom Starks.
However, Starks' attempt to recover only ended up helping the ball trickle over the line.
The visitors nearly equalised moments later with a quick break, but Toby Jones' effort was comfortably saved by Carl Paige.
The Isle of Wedmore continued to press, with the combination of Jones and Olli Sealey looking threatening.
Minehead too showed attacking intent, with a notable save from Tom Stalls denying March.
An incident involving Waghorn led to appeals for handball, but the referee waved them away.
The second half saw more controversy as another penalty appeal for handball was dismissed by the official.
Midway through the half, the visitors had a golden chance to equalise from a penalty kick.
However, a superb double save from Paige kept Minehead in front.
As the visitors increased pressure, defender Bertie Harvey-Larmar was brought on to replace midfielder Will Singleton-Voss.
Towards the end of the match, Waghorn came close to scoring a second with a 25-yard shot.
Carl Paige's heroic performance between the sticks earned him the man of the match award.
With several players unavailable, Todd was pleased with how his side coped with their buoyant opponents.
They are likely to have more players available as Todd continues to mould his squad for the 2026/27 season.
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