WATCHET Town go into their match away to Ashcott in the first division of the Uhlsport Somerset County Football League on Saturday (May 4) knowing victory will ensure them of the runners-up spot, writes Barry Knott.
Staplegrove are already assured of the championship after beating Watchet 3-1 at home a fortnight ago. But Watchet will move up to within three points of the Taunton side if they beat Ashcott who are lying tenth in the table.
Full back Lewis Rogers misses the match, having incurred a three-match ban after being sent off at Staplegrove. It means, of course, he will miss the opening two league games of next season.
Midfielder Brandon Walsh is also unavailable, while skipper Eben Harding is doubtful with a calf injury.
However, Watchet will be able to call on the services of Ali Harrison and Eddie Townsend who both missed the big game at Staplegrove.
Watchet are already assured of promotion under the management team of Nick Sully, Matt Heywood and Aaron Deeks who took charge at the beginning of the season.
No doubt the club would like them to continue and a decision will be made once the season is over.
Meanwhile Minehead, down in 11th spot, have no game this weekend but play their final match of the season against Yatton & Cleeve, the only side who can finish above Watchet.
Minehead won 2-0 away to Burnham last Saturday and have been playing well under manager Craig Carr, the side having gone four games without losing.
Carr has brought in some youngsters and they have blended with the more experienced players. Confidence and spirit has grown within the side.
Minehead will not finish any higher than 11th which is a disappointment. However, new chairman Robbie Hopkins wants an improvement next season with the aim to eventually go for promotion.
Minehead Reserves play Galmington in the semi-finals of the Taunton Saturday League's President's Cup at the Bridgwater College Academy on Friday (May 3, 8p.m.).
Alcombe Rovers play at home to Minehead Colts in the second division of the Saturday League on Saturday (May 4, Dunster 2.30p.m.).
Porlock play Staplegrove Reserves in the final of the Saturday League's KO Cup on Taunton Town's ground on Saturday (May 4, 5p.m.). Both teams have done well to reach the final with the likes of champions Redgate and Galmington missing out.
Porlock are home to title-chasing Redgate in the first division on Thursday, May 9. Redgate have lost only once this season and look like finishing top again.
Exmoor Rangers’ hopes of avoiding relegation in the Saturday League rests very much on the result of their home game against fellow strugglers Bridgwater Sports on Saturday (May 10).