Taunton Town fell to a disappointing 2-1 defeat in the Isuzu FA Trophy at AFC Portchester on Saturday afternoon, despite arriving with spirits high after recent positive performances, writes Jenna Kirby.
The mood in the Peacock camp before kick off was optimistic following the emphatic victory at Dorchester in the Southern League and a strong display in a behind closed doors friendly against National League opposition the previous Friday. However, just one decisive strike ultimately separated the sides, with Connor Duffin finding the net from the edge of the penalty area to send the hosts through.
Taunton started brightly and threatened early, Jack Rice’s fifth minute effort forcing a corner, although the set piece came to nothing as Storm Amy began to wreak havoc with the conditions. Moments later Bailey Croome tumbled under pressure in midfield, and the loose ball fell kindly for Portchy who struck wide.
The home side edged in front on 13 minutes when Taunton failed to clear their lines and the ball fell invitingly for Portchester to convert from close range, a moment that delighted the home supporters but left the visitors frustrated.
The Peacocks created their best first half chance just after the twenty minute mark. Alfie Moulden was bundled over on the edge of the box, but Rice’s resulting free kick was straight at goalkeeper Steven Mowthorpe.
Taunton were much sharper after the restart and found an equaliser when new loan signing Matt Carson swung in a teasing cross that an orange shirt turned into his own net. Hopes of a comeback were short lived, however, as just two minutes later Alfie Stanley punished slack defending to restore the home side’s advantage.
Luffers continued to roll the dice and introduced all five substitutes in search of a response. Joe Hatch showed quick feet to engineer space in the box but his finish lacked conviction and Mowthorpe gathered comfortably. Strong shouts for handball in the area were waved away by the officials as frustration mounted.
Jacob Hodgson went close in the closing stages with a volley that whistled wide, but despite eight minutes of added time the hosts held firm. Portchester advance to the next round while Taunton turn attention to Wednesday’s Somerset Premier Cup tie at Larkhall Athletic before returning to Southern League action against Chertsey Town on Saturday.
📸 Match photos courtesy of Debbie Gould can be viewed here: Flickr Album.