Two goals in last 15 minutes get Odd Down off to winning start

Odd Down made a winning start to the Jewson Western League Division One season.

Skipper Ryan Gay takes the penalty that got Odd Down back on terms against Radstock Town on Saturday 1st August | Photo © Odd Down FC

In manager Tom Smith’s first competitive game in charge, the Down chalked up a 2-1 home success against Radstock Town.

A crowd of 162 came along to the Lew Hill Memorial Ground for the Saturday 1st August match – but they saw no goals in the first half.

However, the visitors opened the scoring in the 53rd minute, Joe Gurner the marksman.

Odd Down levelled when Ryan Gay converted a penalty in the 75th minute.

Five minutes later, Alfie Andrews put the hosts in front.

Ryan Gay celebrates after scoring Odd Down’s equaliser in the Jewson Western League derby with Radstock Town | Photo © Odd Down FC

And deep in injury-time, the Down had a great chance to extend their advantage, when they were awarded another penalty. However, it was fired wide.

Midfielder Lewis Hunt was named the winners’ man of the match.

In the Odd Down starting line-up was new signing Joe Ellis, who has joined the Bath club from Welton Rovers.

Ellis, a player/assistant manager under Smith at West Clewes, has also turned out for Ashton & Backwell United.

Lewis Hunt, Odd Down’s man of the match, on the ball during the Jewson Western League game against Radstock Town | Photo © Odd Down FC

A spokesman for the victors said: “A fantastic way to begin our 2026-27 league campaign as we secured a 2-1 victory over local rivals Radstock Town at the Lew Hill Memorial Ground.

“Despite falling behind against the run of play, the lads showed great character to fight back.

“Captain Ryan Gay calmly converted a penalty, after striker Nick Fowler was brought down in the area, to bring us level.

“The winning goal came in the final 10 minutes, with Alfie Andrews finding the net after some excellent work from substitute Jake Slocombe.

“A deserved three points and the perfect start to the league season.

“Thank you to everyone who came along to support the team.”

Odd Down: Alfie Kelsey, Jaiden Savery, Lewis Bahadur, Joe Paradise, James Book, Joe Ellis, Charlie Saunders (Jake Slocombe, 65), Lewis Hunt, Nick Fowler (Lenny Gale, 88), Ryan Gay (Jack Kelsey, 85), Alfie Andrews. Unused subs: Josh Howlett, Will Gould.

The Down will be back at the Lew Hill Memorial Ground tomorrow, Tuesday 4th August, when they entertain promoted Nailsea United in another league match (7.45pm).

Odd Down have unveiled two more new signings – Toby Cole and Emmanuel Adomako.

Both are ex-Welton players, and forward Cole has Pitching In Southern League experience with Westbury United.

Odd Down Development will play their second pre-season friendly when they visit their Radstock counterparts on Wednesday 5th August (7.30pm).