Uphill Castle Cricket Club defeated neighbours Weston in a charity football match.

NEIGHBOURS Uphill Castle and Weston Cricket Clubs took on each other in a charity football match, dedicated in its inaugural year to Uphill Castle member Brian Watts, who passed away in October.

In a close-fought contest, it was Uphill, captained by Brian’s son Hayden, who took the lead when Gary Morgan’s mistimed header went into his own net.

Uphill kept possession for long periods and had chances when Marcus Bail’s effort was saved and Mike Carpenter hit the bar. Saves from Ray Dibben and Rob Newman kept the score 1-0 at the half-time break.

Weston came back into the game on the hour mark when Adam Webber’s long-range effort beat Dibben. Weston had several opportunities to take the lead, but some squandered chances and some good saves kept things all square.

Sam Matthews missed a good chance for Uphill after a collision between Davidson and Harris and with 10 minutes remaining, an Uphill corner was headed home by Carpenter.

This was almost cancelled out soon after as Weston had a goal disallowed for offside. Uphill were able to withstand the late pressure to seal a 2-1 win in a game played in great spirit.

After the game, Uphill’s Dave Wilcox was presented with the man of the match award for an excellent defensive display, before members of both clubs enjoyed a curry and music from Steve Mitchell.

Proceeds from the day will enable Uphill Castle to donate a memorial bench to the Watts family. Thanks go to everyone at Uphill Castle and Weston Cricket Clubs, who helped organise and support an enjoyable day.