Somerset County Premier Division

Nailsea United 4, Berrow 3

BERROW fell just short of pulling off a miraculous comeback as they went down 4-3 at high-flying Nailsea United.

After finding themselves 4-0 down after 40 minutes, Berrow fought back to 4-3 thanks to second half goals from Craig Hirons, Kane Powell and Luke McErlain – but were unable to find an all-important equaliser.

Defending against the strong wind and rain in the first half, Berrow did well to keep their free scoring opponents out for the first 20 minutes.

But the deadlock was broken soon after when a corner from the left-hand side found its way into the back of the net.

Berrow were now struggling to get out of their own half and it was soon two, thanks to a well-placed shot from the edge of the box that gave ‘keeper Slack no chance.

United made it three on 30 minutes when a scramble in the box was eventually turned home from six yards.

Slack then pulled off two good point blank saves with Berrow’s defence of Kyle McErlain, Harry Penfold and Pete John working overtime to thwart the constant attacks.

On 40 minutes the home side made it four with a speculative shot from the right, again giving Slack no chance.

Tom Yates went close to pulling one back right on half time after good work by Morgan, but his shot hit the side netting.

Despite being four down, Berrow came out for the second half in spirited fashion, with the midfield of Luke McErlain, Craig Hirons and Kane Powell dominating from the start.

After early pressure, Berrow introduced Smith and debutant Peto and they both contributed to a good second half performance.

Berrow pulled one back when Hirons turned in Luke McErlain’s in-swinging corner - and they had another soon after as Powell beat two men before finishing well from the edge of the box.

Berrow still had to concentrate at the back but were now well on top and with 15 minutes to go.

Luke McErlain’s 35-yard free kick left the home keeper flapping to bring Berrow to within striking distance.

Berrow continued to throw everything at Nailsea but were unable to find a fourth goal, as the home side held on for the three points.