Somerset County Division One West

Burnham United 1, Middlezoy Rovers 1

BURNHAM United manager Luke Hussey says his player’s disappointment at not claiming all three points against “a really good side” shows how they are progressing – after Burnham United were held to a 1-1 draw by local rivals Middlezoy on Saturday.

Elliot Lamb had a glorious chance to earn all three points for the hosts with five minutes left to play, but his penalty kick drifted wide of the post after Hardwidge had been brought down in the area.

But Hussey was more than satisfied with the performance of his players and believes they have “learnt a lot” from the game.

He said: "A great game by two committed teams, we wanted to measure ourselves against a really good side to see how we are progressing - I think we have learnt a lot about ourselves today and I'm glad the boys are disappointed not to get the win."

With enforced changes, United were looking to continue their three game unbeaten run in the league against a top three side.

They got off to a flying start, creating a number of early chances without ever really threatening the keeper.

United continued with their passing style and were being matched by the visitors, who were playing with similar tactics.

It was Will Lamb making his first start if the season who defied Middlezoy as they threatened to go in front - and Russ Holley could consider himself lucky to be booked and not sent off after a high challenge.

The hosts soon took the lead with a well worked goal - Joe Selway continued with his hard working game to help set up Steve Leaf who finished with a powerful header.

The second half was a similar story with both sides having good possession but not finishing the chances created. Charlie Harding was starting to look menacing hitting the target from distance.

A swift attack from Middlezoy brought about a clinical finish to level the scores up.

United immediately hit back with an attack which saw Hardwidge agonisingly hit the bar from inside the box.

With less than five minutes remaining, United launched another swift attack which saw Hardwidge scythed down inside the penalty area.

Elliot Lamb stepped up - only to see his spot kick go wide and the chance of three points go with it.

Team: Lamb, Reason, Lamb, Cannard, Holley, Vaughan, Hardwidge, Mylum, Selway, Harding, Leaf, Kidner, Cleave, Morris