Minehead AFC knocked out of Somerset Senior Cup by Hengrove

Minehead AFC are out of the Somerset Senior Cup <i>(Image: David Davies)</i>
Minehead AFC are out of the Somerset Senior Cup (Image: David Davies)
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Minehead AFC were knocked out of the Somerset Senior Cup by Hengrove Athletic.

Things started well for the hosts when Olly Prescott put Minehead ahead after 15 minutes.

However, their hopes were hindered just before half-time when central defender JJ Knight was sent off after receiving a second yellow card.

This meant Minehead had to face the second half with only 10 players.

Hengrove took full advantage of this after the break, with substitute Louis Davies scoring in the 50th minute.

Their lead was extended by top scorer Joe Parsons 10 minutes later.

Minehead did not give up easily, though, with Toby Waghorn's pace causing trouble for the visitors.

Captain Mike Graddon also led his side well, despite suffering a late tackle.

Louis Burge frequently pushed forward from defence, leaving just three at the back on occasions.

Waghorn was at the heart of another attack when he collided with Hengrove's goalkeeper Tom Lewis at the edge of the box.

However, the referee did not award a free kick and instead restarted the game with a throw-in for Minehead.

Minehead kept pushing for an equaliser, but in the 81st minute, Carl Basana's goal for Hengrove made it 3-1, securing the victory for the Bristol side.

Minehead's bench was not as well-stocked as their opponents, who were able to make five substitutions in the second half.

Michael Nield and team coach Lee Hardick were introduced.

They were also without last week's hat-trick hero Cam Thompson.

Despite the loss, Waghorn's pace was a constant threat to Hengrove's defence throughout the game.

The visitors were evidently relieved to hear the final whistle, acknowledging they had been in a tough contest, especially in the second half.

The team now turns their attention to improving their league position.

Currently, there is no match scheduled on Saturday, November 14, for Minehead.

However, Minehead Reserves are set to play against AFC Wagtail in the Somerset Junior Cup at 2pm and would appreciate extra support from fans.

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