Assan Sowe and Wilkinson fire Shepton to win over Oldland
By Laura Linham 25th Sep 2025
Shepton Mallet produced a composed and effective performance to overcome a physical Oldland side. From early pressure to clinical finishing, their display rarely dipped.
They began brightly, winning five corners in the first 12 minutes, leading to three shots that required solid saves from visiting keeper Kieran Perrin — two from Jake Sloggett and one from Cam Allen.
Oldland appeared to score from their first real attack around the 15minute mark, but the goal was ruled out for a clear offside. Shepton stayed on top through to the break, with a Ben Snell shot just wide and a corner from Allen narrowly missing the target — their closest opportunities before halftime.
Just five minutes into the second half the breakthrough came, somewhat unexpectedly. Assan Sowe — quiet in the first 45 — turned across his marker and unleashed a low 20yard strike that beat Perrin to the bottom corner.
Oldland nearly responded immediately, as Jacob Saunders spotted keeper Owen Crawford off his line and hit a long shot that just missed the post. Shepton pressed on: after a Luke Wilkinson freekick was saved and two Lewis Coleman efforts (one saved, one over), Wilkinson doubled the lead midhalf.
As Shepton's corner count climbed into double figures — all delivered by Allen — Snell knocked one back into the box for Wilkinson to tap in from 8 yards. Late in the game Oldland mounted pressure, but their best chance — a Cash Vinnall freekick with 18 minutes remaining — drifted just wide.
Throughout, Wilkinson marshalled the defence and launched precise long balls, while the defence repeatedly caught Oldland offside. Midfielders Paul Braithwaite, Cam Allen and man of the match Lewis Coleman won key battles, helping Shepton move up to 7th in the table ahead of their next trip to play Saltash United in Cornwall.
Attendance was 138.
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