PAULTON Rovers fought out a full blooded 2-2 draw at home to second-placed Torpoint Athletic in the Premier Division of the Jewson Western League

Rovers went into this game full of confidence after two good league wins but were rocked in the first minute when the visitors snatched an early goal. A cross from the left was met by Sam Pearson to turn the ball into the net.

It was certainly a blow and getting back into the game would be quite a task given that Torpoint have one of the meanest defensive records in the league.

Indeed, Rovers began to take most of the control of the ball but found it hard to break down a well marshalled defence.

In the 8th minute, Kitan Jaiyeoba jinked around a tackle on the right and crossed the ball in. It was deflected away but only to Max Williams whose snap shot deflected up and hit the crossbar.

Rovers continued to push for the remainder of the half but couldn’t find a way to break down the stubborn defence. Torpoint were looking to hit Rovers on the counter, and while they looked tidy, didn’t unduly threaten goalkeeper James Smallcombe.

If they were to get back into the game, it was looking likely that Torpoint would need to make a mistake or a moment of magic from a Rovers player was needed.

But, for 25 minutes or so the same pattern as the first half was played out with Rovers gaining most of the possession but not testing Torpoint.

It took until the 62nd minute for the first chance to go close. A corner was whipped to the far post where Elliot Haffenden was lurking. His header was goal bound but cleared off the line at the last second by a Torpoint head.

But, the chance lifted the supporters who suddenly felt a goal could come. And indeed it did seven minutes later. Tuesday’s hattrick hero, Kitan, picked the ball up on the right side of the box and cut in before firing low and hard into the left hand corner. It was the moment of magic that the supporters had hoped for!

The game then turned. With tails up, Rovers looked to grab a winner and Torpoint suddenly looked rocky. The good crowd, supported by members of Paulton Rovers DC Under 7s who had been mascots for the day, felt a winner coming.

In the 85th minute, Rovers thought they had it. In the 85th minute, Elliot Haffenden picked up the ball on the left side of the box, and like Kitan had earlier, cut inside before launching a curling shot that beat the keeper on his right.

The supporters were ecstatic and a third almost came moments later when Haffenden was put through one on one with the keeper. His shot beat the outstretched arms of the shot stopper but agonisingly hit the post.

There was still time for further shocks when Torpoint made their best move of the half, crossing from the right allowing Gary Hird to nod in at the far post.

Alex Hallet was sent off for Rovers for an incident in the net as two players seemed to go after the ball.

Chris Peck was presented with the Man of the Match award sponsored by Central Garage of Paulton.

Jon Green