Odd Down beaten in new gaffer Smith’s first game at helm

Odd Down’s opening match under new manager Tom Smith ended in defeat on Wednesday 8th July.

Odd Down in possession during their derby defeat by Larkhall Athletic Development on Wednesday 8th July | Photo © Odd Down FC

Smith – who led Welton Rovers to promotion from Western League Division One in 2022 – took charge of the Down for the first time when they visited Larkhall Athletic Development for a pre-season friendly.

But the Larks – from the Corsham Print Wiltshire Senior League Premier Division – caused an upset by beating their Bath neighbours, who are members of Western League Division One, 1-0 at the Camella Stadium.

A spokesman for Odd Down said: “A competitive and evenly contested pre-season fixture saw both sides create opportunities throughout the game.

Larkhall Athletic Development on the attack as they make their way to a 1-0 victory over Odd Down at the Camella Stadium | Photo © Odd Down FC

“Unfortunately, Larkhall found the breakthrough late in the second half, scoring the only goal of the match to secure a 1–0 victory.

“There were plenty of positives to take from our performance as preparations for the new season continue.”

The Larks described their efforts as “another strong performance against higher opposition’, the Plain Ham outfit having beaten Mendip Broadwalk – another team from Western League Division One – in their first friendly.

Odd Down now turn their attention to a friendly against uhlsport Somerset County League Division One side Imperial.

The game at South Bristol Sports Centre will kick-of at 2pm on Saturday 11th July.

Larkhall Development will be at home in another warm-up match on Thursday 23rd July when Welton, who are now back in Western League Division One, provide the opposition (7.45pm).

Meanwhile, midfielder Eben Mortimer-Taylor – who spent the past four years with Larkhall’s first team in Pitching In Southern League Division One South – has made the move to Westbury United.

Odd Down make a pass at the Camella Stadium during the pre-season friendly against Larkhall Athletic Development | Photo © Odd Down FC

The White Horse Men, who are also members of Southern League Division One South, announced Mortimer-Taylor’s arrival this week.

A statement from the Wiltshire club said: “We are thrilled to announce the signing of Eben Mortimer-Taylor.

“The versatile midfield man arrives after a successful four-year stint at Larkhall Athletic.

“We look forward to seeing Eben in action down Platinum Hyundai Park.”

Mortimer-Taylor said: “Looking forward to getting the new season under way.

“I hope I can bring a ton of energy, drive and as many extra goals as possible to the club to make this season as strong as possible.”