A YOUNG Paulton Rovers team which included a total of 12 Under-16s players showed great character to take all three points against visitors Odd Down FC on Thursday (March 7).

The visitors started the most lively of the two sides on the night, getting in behind the Paulton defence but without creating any clear cut chances, writes manager Josh Hurst, of Paulton Rovers.

However, Paulton grew into the game and started to attack their opponents very well, particularly down the right side through George Stevens. And it wasn’t long until a cross from George was deflected into the goal by one of the Odd Down Defenders to give the home side the 1-0 lead. 

With a foot hold in the game, Paulton started to look more comfortable in possession, until two poor passes led to the ball being given away at the back allowing Odd Down to find a well taken leveller, making he scoreline 1-1. 

A few more opportunities came for both teams but some good defending prevented anyone from finding a way through and the game looked destined for a staklemate 1-1 draw. 

That was until the 89th minute when the Paulton number 5 was shown a straight red for a late tackle. 

With an extra player, Odd Down created a number of very good opportunities and came close on a number of occasions to finding the winning goal. However, Paulton dug deep and with one minute to go, Noah Abbott did very well to find Luke Mavridis who finished superbly into the far corner to give the home side all three points. The game ended 2-1. Paul

Paulton Rovers Under-18s sit third in the league with three points so far this season, behind Walton and Portishead Town with and six respectively.

They will face Weston-super-Mare, currently rooted at the bottom of the league, on Monday, March 25 and Mangotsfield, in seventh as it stands, on Thursday, April 11.

The club states new players are also welcome to join the club, which competes in Western Counties Floodlight Youth Premier League Division. Those interested in joining should contact manager Josh Hurst at the club.

For more information on Paulton Rovers, which plays at Winterfield Stadium, in Winterfield Road, visit the club’s website at www.paultonrovers.co.uk.

Admission for Under 18 game's is Adults £3, Under 18's £1, (Under 12's admitted free with a paying adult).