The U18 squad hosted Swindon at a wet and blustery Somerton in search of a positive result after recent impressive performances.
Continuing to adapt to a new diamond system under Head Coach Mark Challen, the Glovers were quick off the blocks earning an early penalty for a clumsy challenge. Lloyd saw his spot kick saved but Haste was on hand to stab the ball home for a 1 – 0 advantage.
Yeovil continued to impress and dictate with Hughes instrumental in a new deep-lying midfield role. Indeed, the Glovers doubled their lead after 25 minutes when Constanza played a smart pass through to Lloyd who saw his initial shot saved before calmy curling in from an acute angle to make it 2 – 0.
The home side could have put themselves further ahead, but Lloyd put an effort just wide and then Stephens saw a turn and shot sail over before seeing a later effort smash off the crossbar.
A smart volley from the edge of the box narrowly missed as Swindon pressed for a foothold in the game but the defensive unit held firm and a fantastic block from Corrbridge brought an end to an impressive half.
Swindon started the second half on the front foot, but the Glovers were able to repel any danger in the opening exchanges. The game entered a sloppy period for both sides with possession given away cheaply before Challen opted for a couple of attacking changes. Aborra and Shock entered the fray, but it was Swindon who began to control matters; some good interplay and a shot just wide before an excellent save from Smalley from close range.
Bright entered the game to help shore up the defence, but the Glovers were now struggling to contain the visitors. The Glovers picked up a couple of bookings for dissent and delaying a free kick and had a lucky escape when the young Swindon sub saw a header fly narrowly over from a promising position.
With less than 5 minutes remaining, Swindon scored the goal that their second half performance deserved to make it 2-1. In the ensuing melee to restart the match, Swindon had two players sent off and the Glovers received two yellows, but it was the home team who hung on for the 2 – 1 victory.
Next up a midweek trip to Oxford, before a final South West League home match versus Plymouth Argyle on the 27thFebruary.
