MINEHEAD Hockey Club’s troubles continued as a lambing and skiing-affected squad travelled for a very tough test at second-placed Westbury and United Banks.

Another formidable opponent with a strong squad and bench yet again meant the Seasiders would be hard pressed from the start of the match.

Volunteers Bowden, Strong and Jones from the seconds, and Druitt from the thirds helped make up the numbers to fulfil the fixture for the sake of fair play, but it was inevitable that they came away suffering a heavy 15-0 defeat.

The Seconds hosted Taunton Civil Service, eager to avenge a close away loss earlier in the season.

A bare 11 on both sides made for a fair contest, with Rufus Strong and Scott Fewings from the thirds demonstrating their fitness by playing their second full match of the day.

But it was Minehead, amazingly quick out of the blocks for a home fixture, that went ahead in the first two minutes from a sweet Joe Bolton tap round the keeper.

With nerves settled, it was one-way traffic nearly the entire first half, with Minehead playing their best hockey of the season.

Clegg up front was brilliantly helped by Lawrence Taylor, relishing the freedom of an attacking role, and frequently punishing his opposite numbers.

Two from Clegg, and Taylor saw a healthy cushion at the break.

The second half saw the visitors rally, and attacks from deep by their outstanding right back saw them win three short corners, scoring from two to rattle Minehead.

Two Fewings goals picked up off Taylor’s endless square balls in the D, and an Andrew Covey goal from a mighty strike from a short corner, saw the lead established again, and a late third for Civil added some pride.

Glenmore Bakery Man of the Match Rufus Strong certainly earned his pie this week.

The Thirds hosted Chard also looking to turn round an away defeat from before Christmas.

Despite the team putting in a good effort, it was Chard who were to go in at the break one up.

Scott Fewings took control in the second half, running a goal in from the half way line.

A controversial penalty was awarded to Minehead after the Chard keeper stood on the ball at a short corner, but Darlington fired the ball onto the keeper’s pads to deny them the win.

Glenmore Bakery Man of the Match was Sam Cobb in only his third competitive match.

Tomorrow, Saturday 16th the firsts are hosting Sidmouth, the seconds travel to second in the league West Dorset, and the thirds are up early to Taunton Vale for a 10.30am start. All supporters are welcome, especially to cheer on the firsts.