Shepton Mallet edged out Bridgwater United in a hard-fought battle, completing a league double over their rivals with a well-taken winner from Matt Morris. The crucial goal gave the home side a much-needed three points and kept their season on track.

The first half was scrappy, with both teams struggling to keep hold of the ball and few clear-cut chances to show for their efforts. Bridgwater came closest early on when Finn Koppa let fly, only for Shepton's No.1 Owen Crawford to produce a brilliant fingertip save. The hosts responded with Joel Sisson seeing his shot cleared off the line following a Jake Sloggett corner, while Noah Brown flashed an effort wide for the visitors. Just before the break, Morris had a decent headed chance, but it was straight at Bridgwater keeper Liam Kington.

The second half saw more intent from both sides. Hayden Chambers looked certain to score for Bridgwater, but Monty Burgess pulled off a crucial block to keep Shepton level. As the game wore on, Shepton took control, but wayward finishing kept the game in the balance. Charlie Bateson and Sloggett both fired over when well placed before Morris stepped up with 15 minutes to go.

A well-worked set-piece move saw substitute Aaron Seviour roll a free kick to Morris, who took a touch and buried a low drive from 20 yards past Kington. Five minutes later, Shepton could have doubled their lead after a slick move between Bateson, Paul Braithwaite, and Seviour, but Kington somehow produced a stunning save to deny Seviour.

Crawford, who had been largely untested in the second half, ensured Shepton's lead stayed intact with a brilliant double save five minutes from time, before Jack Taylor dragged Bridgwater's last chance wide.

Man of the Match honours went to Matt Morris, just edging out keeper Crawford, who secured his 12th clean sheet of the season.

Attendance: 161

After the match, Shepton Chairman Rodney Neale presented Jake Sloggett with an award for his 100th appearance for the club—a fine achievement for the midfield stalwart.

Up Next for Shepton

Shepton's next league fixture is a tough away trip to St Blazey on Saturday, 15th March (KO 3.00pm), followed by further away games against Brixham (22nd March) and AFC St Austell (29th March). The next home fixture sees Shepton take on Buckland Athletic on Saturday, 5th April (KO 3.00pm).

Big games ahead—C'mon the Mallet!