SALISBURY 1 BIDEFORD 0

ROBINS SUFFER NARROW DEFEAT AT SALISBURY

Bideford’s fading hopes of reaching the playoffs took another hit although there was plenty to be optimistic about in last night’s narrow defeat at second place Salisbury.

Despite their recent hectic schedule, Bideford put in a good performance against the Premier Division bound side and were unfortunate to come away from the RayMac empty handed.

Stuart Green put Salisbury ahead on 15 minutes after being set up by Zack Kotwica but The Robins came right back at the home side with Ben Carter seeing a shot deflected wide soon after. Carter went close again a few minutes later as did Josh Key and Ryan Turner who both were just off target. Kevin Squire also wasn’t far away with a header while at the other end Steve Oliver saved from Sam Roberts and Eddie Perrett headed over right on half time.

In the second half Kotwica clipped the bar for Salisbury just past the hour mark before Bideford put the pressure on in the final 20 minutes. Will Hancox forced a good save from Charlie Searle and five minutes later fired just over from 20 yards out. As The Robins continued to press in the latter stages, Kotwica missed a big chance at the other end for The Whites who held on to claim the three points on a night of celebration for the Wiltshire side.

Bideford: Oliver, Sampson, Allan, Mayne, Wood, Key (Hancox 48), Bye, Carter, Downing, Squire (Seymour 46), Turner. Subs: Seymour, Western, Hancox, Reed, Harrison.

Goal: Green 15

Attendance: 660