Champions of Somerset

Taunton Town are the Somerset Premier Cup Champions of 2013-14! The Peacocks won the cup for the third time after beating Frome Town 1-0 in the Final played at Paulton Rovers yesterday evening (29 April). It was a fully deserved victory for Town who defended superbly, worked tirelessly in midfield and were threatening going forward against their higher league opponents. An assistant’s flag was raised for offside well before Frome’s Rhys Baggridge found the net in the early stages and moments later a Chris Young pass put Rodney Marsh through at the other end but under a challenge from Jon Vance he was unable to direct his effort on target after rounding Darren Chitty. A Vance short corner led to Ben Wood firing just over and some further pressure saw Steve Kingdon clear off the line but the Peacocks then took control. Jamie Price headed wide from a Jamie Short corner and Rob Norrish clipped a shot past the far post before the breakthrough arrived two minutes into first half stoppage time when Baggridge failed to clear and Nat Pepperell capitalised by curling a wonderful strike past Chitty from the left side of the box. Town went on to dictate the second period and carved out further opportunities playing up the slope. Pepperell only just missed the target and Chitty saved from Marsh and Price whilst Steve Murray saw one attempt deflected over and a snapshot fizz narrowly wide. Frome in contrast struggled to create a worthwhile chance with Joe Perry remaining relatively untroubled. Town were reduced to nine men during added time when Young was shown a harsh red card for flicking out at Josh Ford and Murray was dismissed following a late tackle on the edge of the Taunton area in the dying embers. However the Peacocks counted out the seconds to ensure their name was etched onto the Cup. Match report now online.

Manager Leigh Robinson said:” It was a great night to be involved and I’m incredibly proud of the players. To not concede a goal throughout the competition and beat two higher league clubs in the semi-final and final is one hell of an effort. I’m delighted also for the really hardworking people off the pitch and at the club as well as the supporters. This is just rewards for them and I thank them for all of their wonderful support this year. Looking at the bigger picture though this is a kick start and we must use it as excellent experience to go and get one of the bigger prizes next year and find a way to get this club up the leagues.”