Shepton Mallet were undone by two late errors in a scrappy match at Saltash, conceding twice in four minutes to lose 2–0 in a game that had looked headed for a draw.

With just over 15 minutes remaining, Conrad Peck and then Connor Collins each gave away possession under minimal pressure. Saltash capitalised, with Reece Thomson heading the opener before Finlay Wilkes struck from 20 yards to seal the result.

Shepton had shown signs of attacking intent earlier. In the fourth minute, JJ Littlewood forced a spill from Saltash keeper Dan Layer before the keeper recovered. Top scorer Ben Snell was poised to pounce but couldn't get the shot away. Later, he underhit a halfchance from an Assan Sowe cross straight at Layer. Before halftime, Saltash came close with two angled efforts that drifted just wide.

A clash of heads between Shepton's Joel Sisson and Saltash's Deacon Thomson during stoppage time delayed play. Thomson was attended to on the pitch and an ambulance was called, postponing the restart by about an hour. He was later able to walk to the ambulance with assistance. Shepton physio Martyn Penny remained with him throughout, alongside the Saltash physio.

When play resumed, Shepton's best chance fell to Taelan Savage, who failed to get his head on a fine Snell cross. Cam Allen then curled a free kick narrowly wide before the two quick Saltash goals struck. Late on, Reece Thomson nearly added a third, his 20yard shot beating the keeper only to hit the wrong side of the post.

It was a harsh result for Shepton, especially given their injury issues. With a demanding October schedule ahead, the team will need a swift response.

Attendance: 224.

In the Reserves fixture, Shepton lost 32 away to Burnham United FC. Club skipper Joe Riley was taken to hospital with a suspected broken leg but has since been discharged following checks. The club sends its best wishes to Riley and all injured players.

Coming up:

– Reserves host Welton Rovers FC Reserves in the Somerset FA Senior Men's Cup on Tuesday 30 September, KO 7.30pm

– First team host Sidmouth on Saturday 4 October, KO 3.00pm

– Shepton Mallet Under18s play Keynsham Town at home on Tuesday 7 October, KO 7.30pm

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