Shepton Mallet AFC faced a challenging week, enduring two narrow defeats that have left them on the wrong side of fine margins.

The team first exited the FA Vase at the hands of Callington Town FC in a tense 5-4 penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, followed by a 3-2 league loss to Paulton Rovers, where their late comeback efforts fell just short.

In the FA Vase clash, Shepton travelled to Cornwall to face Callington Town, where blustery conditions made the first half difficult for both sides. Despite the weather, Shepton seized the initiative when Josh Jenkins scored in the 25th minute after being set up by Joel Sisson. The lead was short-lived, however, as Callington were awarded a controversial penalty following a foul by Danny Constable. Kieran Ryall converted the spot-kick, levelling the match.

Shepton had opportunities to regain the lead, with chances falling to Charlie Bateson and Jenkins, but they were unable to capitalise. Callington threatened sporadically, but Shepton goalkeeper Tom Easterbrook kept them at bay with a series of fine saves. The match ended 1-1, sending it to penalties. Despite a valiant effort, Shepton were edged out 5-4, with Callington progressing to the next round. Dylan Gould was named Shepton's Man of the Match for his solid performance.

Just days later, Shepton faced Paulton Rovers in a local league fixture at Winterfield Road. Shepton found themselves 3-1 down at half-time, with Paulton capitalising on their few chances. Josh Ford, Will Osborne, and a quick strike after the restart put Paulton in a commanding position, despite Jenkins pulling one back for Shepton in the first half.

In the second half, Shepton dominated, with Jenkins scoring his second of the game following a brilliant run from Jake Sloggett. However, Paulton's goalkeeper, Dan Jackson, proved to be the difference, making a string of crucial saves to deny Shepton an equaliser. Will Banks was named Shepton's Man of the Match for his efforts in defence, though the result left Shepton frustrated once again.

The attendance for the Paulton match was 271, while 117 fans witnessed the FA Vase drama at Callington.

Shepton Mallet will aim to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures. They face Oldland Abbotonians at home on Saturday, 31st August, with a 3:00 pm kick-off, and will look to reverse their fortunes in front of their home supporters.

C'mon the Mallet – the supporters are right behind you!