SWANAGE TOWN & HERSTON 3

BRIDPORT RESERVES 3

BRIDPORT Reserves showed tremendous grit and determination in coming back from a 3-0 half-time deficit against Swanage to draw 3-3 in their Jewson Dorset Premier League clash at Days Park.

Making serene progress early on, the Swans had opened their advantage thanks to Will Prior’s lob, Aaron Merridew’s fine finish and a Jack Hughes strike.

In a true tale of two halves, Bridport then stormed back with three goals in ten minutes, Dom McAllister getting the ball rolling with a 70th-minute penalty.

READ MORE: Bridport Reserves 3-3 Wimborne Town Reserves - match report

Teenage star Harley Brook headed home a corner and captain Kriss Radivojsa grabbed the all-important equaliser ten minutes from time.

Bridport were not content with three goals and Mika Mamanta went close to a winner, although both sides had to settle for a point.

The Bees now go into Saturday’s Dorset Senior Trophy clash at home to Beaminster, boss Adam Herring’s former club.

He told the Bridport News: “The draw was made before I went over to Bridport, so I knew that fixture was coming up.

“We’ve not played each other competitively for 30-odd years. It’s always a big game and I know a lot of people will be going down from Beaminster.

“It’s going to be a good one, we’ve got more to lose. There’s been a bit of banter going round and obviously a lot of my best friends are still playing for Beaminster.

“It’s a difficult one for me, a strange one.”

Beaminster boss Neil Holt added: “We’re looking forward to playing a side a league higher than us and believe if the players play to their potential it should be a good game.”

Bridport’s Jake Mansley (hamstring) is out, along with a number of cup-tied players who have played in the Senior Cup.