Shepton Mallet AFC marked the return of manager Craig Loxton with a dramatic 6-4 home win in a ten-goal thriller in front of a crowd of 227.

After more than a month away from The Playing Fields, and under new management, Loxton took charge of his first home game back at the club. It was a familiar sight for supporters, with Loxton having previously spent around seven years at the helm before moving on to spells with Paulton Rovers and Wells City, followed by a coaching role at Frome Town.

He returned with a new-look squad and was rewarded with a performance full of energy, commitment and goals as Shepton claimed all three points.

The home side took the lead on six minutes when new signing Tom Ovigne beat several defenders down the right and squared the ball for Brad Pfupa, who slotted home on his debut. Brislington were level five minutes later after Luke Wilkinson was booked for an off-the-ball incident, with Shea Mannings converting from the spot to make it 1-1.

Shepton responded quickly. Ovigne went close on 13 minutes before a corner was only half cleared, allowing Wilkinson to strike a half-volley into the net on 14 minutes. The visitors equalised again a minute later following a defensive error, and despite chances at both ends, the sides went in level at 2-2 at the break.

The second half began with Shepton keeper Marko Radovanovic producing a huge save, pushing the ball onto the post. On 57 minutes, Ovigne capped an impressive debut by cutting inside and finishing calmly to restore the home lead.

Ovigne continued to cause problems and won a penalty on 68 minutes after being brought down in the box. He stepped up himself to convert and make it 4-2. Brislington's number nine was then sent off on 75 minutes after picking up a second yellow card for dissent.

Substitute Fin Koppa made an immediate impact, scoring Shepton's fifth on 81 minutes. The sixth followed soon after when Ovigne played in Ethan Cannings, who made no mistake with his finish.

Despite being down to ten men, Brislington pulled a goal back on 89 minutes and added another from the penalty spot in stoppage time, but it was too late to deny Shepton a memorable 6-4 victory.

Ovigne was named man of the match by sponsor Andy Stone of Footywatch after scoring twice, providing two assists and creating numerous chances on an outstanding debut.

Shepton are back at home next, hosting high-flying Torpoint Athletic with a 3.00pm kick-off. The match will be followed by the club's Christmas party from 6.00pm, with music from Luke Potter, karaoke, free entry and festive jumpers encouraged.