bees win 5-0 against Bishops Lydeard to secure second place

BRIDPORT 5

BRIDPORT secured at the league’s runners-up spot on Saturday with a dominant display against Bishops Lydeard.

In the Bees' final away fixture of the campaign, they showed exactly why they have been the division's "great entertainers," hitting an historic goal-scoring milestone and maintaining a clean sheet.

With Bovey Tracy in a strong position to secure the title over their next two games, Bridport's focus has been oncementing second place and then seeing what happens with their title rivals.

The game began with plenty of energy, though it took the Bees a few minutes to fully settle. The breakthrough came at the seven-minute mark via a well-executed corner. Darren Lock rose to help the ball along with his head into a crowded pack of players, where the ever-sharp Solomon Ayunga reacted quickest to find the net.

Ayunga wasn't finished. Moments later, a clinical counter-attack produced a testing ball that allowed Ayunga to showcase his strength and pace. He shrugged off the defenders and beat the keeper to double the lead.

The afternoon took on historic significance shortly after. Harley Brook delivered a pinpoint cross from the right wing to pick out Alex Thomas on the left. Thomas finished expertly, marking Bridport’s 100th goal of the season—a testament to the attacking philosophy of the squad this year.

Before the break, Kieren Daniels stepped up to a corner which swung directly into the goal. Whether it went straight in or took a hint of a deflection, Daniels deserved the plaudits for a dangerous delivery that left the hosts reeling.

The second half proved to be more of a graft. To their credit, Bishops Lydeard kept fighting and put the Bees under pressure on several occasions. However, Bridport remained clinical; Solomon Ayunga completed a stellar individual performance by volleying home a cross from the left side to make it five.

While several more opportunities arose from corners, the hosts defended gallantly until the final whistle. It was a professional performance underscored by the seamless integration of Oscar Lovell into the back line, where he looked completely at home. Special mention must go to Player of the Match Lucas Voss, whose non-stop energy and skill were vital in breaking down attacks and transitioning the ball into dangerous positions.

The Bees now return to St Mary’s this Saturday to face Torrington AFC.