Shepton Mallet's challenge faded in the second half at Portishead as they fell to a 2-0 defeat, not helped by a controversial red card for James Sharkey.

Missing their first-choice midfield, Shepton held firm for much of a quiet first half, with keeper Owen Crawford confidently dealing with early pressure. Will Banks was fouled in Shepton's first attack, leading to a save from home keeper Ryan Thacker after Matt Morris' effort. Strong defending from Joel Sisson and Corey Stock kept Portishead at bay, while Crawford did well to deny Dean Griffith after 25 minutes.

Ten minutes later, Crawford spilled a shot, but Sharkey was there to clear off the line. Shepton responded with a promising attack, winning a corner through Charlie Bateson, but after a goalmouth scramble, Portishead cleared the danger with a long ball upfield. Ethan Feltham was quickest to react, latching onto the loose ball and finishing from 20 yards to give the hosts a 40th-minute lead.

In the second half, Jason Quick and Feltham both fired wide for Portishead, while Shepton's Charlie Walton had a shot blocked near the goal line. The game's turning point came in the 57th minute when Sharkey was shown a straight red for a strong challenge. The decision appeared harsh, with the referee seemingly influenced by loud appeals from the home dugout.

Portishead wasted no time taking advantage, doubling their lead just three minutes later when Murray converted a cross from Kyle Egan. Banks saw a header comfortably saved by Thacker, but Shepton rarely threatened in the closing stages. Crawford made two more saves to deny Feltham and Louis Morrison, while Harry Rutty cleared a goal-bound effort from Murray.

Although Portishead controlled the second half and look strong contenders for the league title, Shepton may have posed a sterner test with a full-strength squad.

Man of the Match: Owen Crawford, with strong performances from Corey Stock, Harry Rutty, and Will Banks in an unfamiliar midfield role.

Attendance: 324

Shepton Reserves continued their fine form, beating Evercreech 3-0 in the local derby in front of a crowd of over 120.

Upcoming fixtures:

• Tuesday 4th March: Oldland Abbotonians (A) – KO 7.30pm
• Saturday 8th March: Bridgwater United (H) – KO 3.00pm