Robins still in the hunt

Sean Downing’s second half goal gave Bideford a much needed three points over Larkhall Athletic on Saturday in a repeat of last season’s fixture at the Plain Ham Ground. The Robins’ 1-0 win ended a run of three straight defeats and keeps them in the hunt for the playoffs with seven games remaining.

It was a workmanlike performance on a heavy pitch from The Robins who had the lion’s share of possession and opportunities but were unable to find a way through in the first half. Downing, Kevin Squire and Josh Key were all denied by Larks’ keeper Shaun Semmens while Ryan Turner and Dan Western were both off target.

In the second half Stephen Reed, Dan Harrison and Key again went close but it was Downing who got the all important goal on 65 minutes. Steve Oliver spotted Downing in space out on the right and The Robins’ number four took the ball on, beat a defender and lifted the ball over the advanced Semmens with a super finish.

Larkhall worked hard but their best efforts all flew off target with the exception of one which was routinely saved by Oliver. The win leaves Bideford six points off the playoff positions with two games in hand.

Source Bideford FC