Bideford returned to winning ways in the Isuzu FA Trophy with a 2-0 first round qualifying victory over Pitching in Southern League Division One South rivals, Malvern Town.
What made the triumph even more impressive is the fact that they did it by playing for over half of the game with outfield player, Finn Roberts, in goal after he replaced the injured Lloyd Marshall in the 36th minute.
Roberts dealt with everything that came his way, despite never having played in goal before.
“I’ve played in goal on FIFA, but never in real life,” he told us. “When Lloyd had to go off and with no ‘keeper on the bench, I had absolutely no hesitation in taking the gloves.
“As I say, it’s a position that I am yet to tick off competitively, so I thought why not give it a go? I was more than happy to step up knowing that I get to just kick the ball as hard as I can up the field!
“I’d like to think that I’ve given the Gaffer food for thought with my performance. You can’t change a winning team, especially when the goalkeeper keeps a clean sheet!
“It’s been a tough start to the season, but like every other League, it’s still very early days and we’re not getting worried. We just keep our heads down, plug away and I’m sure we’ll start to move in the right direction.
“The League is just as tough as it was last season; we were right up there last time and I am sure we can do the same again this time around and go one better by getting in the play-offs this time.”
We ended by asking whether he would volunteer to go in goal again should the need arise?
“Absolutely,” he responded without a moments’ hesitation. “It was good fun…”
It’s back to League business on Saturday with a trip down to Cornwall to face Helston Athletic. Whether Finn Roberts keeps his place in between the posts remains to be seen!
IMAGE: Sean Gosling
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