Two second half goals helped steer the Peacocks to a 3-1 victory in the local Evo-Stik League derby clash at Tiverton Town this afternoon (27th August).
Town fully merited maximum points following a strong all-round performance in a game of relatively few chances. The Peacocks went ahead with their first real opportunity after 23 minutes, a Ben Adelsbury free kick being tipped over by Liam Armstrong and from the resulting corner Matt Wright was pulled down by Jamie Price and a penalty awarded which Wright duly converted. Tiverton drew level seven minutes before half time when Levi Landricombe’s cross was cleared as far as River Allen who hit an excellent first time volley past Lloyd Irish from 25 yards to leave it all square at the break.
The second half became increasingly scrappy but Town remained the better side and retook the lead after 59 minutes when Ollie Chamberlain rose to head in Wright’s cross at the far post. The win was then confirmed four minutes into stoppage time when good work from Andrew Neal on the left set up Matt Buse to guide the ball home into the corner amidst delirious celebrations from the Peacocks supporters. The win lifts Town up to second place on goal difference and they will look to consolidate their position when they entertain Basingstoke Town at the Viridor Stadium on Saturday.
Reaction | manager Leigh Robinson commented: “A really good win to round off a good first month in this division for us. Going into the game I felt we had better players and a fitter side to deal with Saturday/Monday games and provided we won personal battles and defended set pieces we’d go on to win the game. We felt a bit aggrieved to be level at half time, they scored a good goal but a bit out of nowhere in a half we dominated. That said, heads didn’t drop and despite the second half being scrappy, our application was second to none and we came up with the moments of quality when it mattered. Great to see the fans enjoy their day, their support was top class and we now move on to September with cup and league action to look forward to.”
Brett Trowbridge who has re-joined the club was on the bench for today’s game but didn’t come on. Robinson continued: “It was an easy decision to get Brett back once we knew there was interest. He gives us good options defensively with the personnel that we have right now plus we know he’s a great lad, good in the changing room, well liked and super reliable. Before getting injured he was a big part of last season so we’re pleased to have him back to help us in this division.”