WATCHET Town and Minehead will be looking to bounce back today after losing crucial games in the Uhlsport Somerset County Football League last weekend, writes Barry Knott.

Watchet were beaten 2-0 at home against Nailsea United in the Premier Division - a defeat which leaves them fourth from bottom, but still in with a good chance of avoiding relegation.

Watchet boss Callum Knight said: “We were obviously disappointed with Saturday’s result but with six regulars unavailable it was always going to be difficult.

“However, whatever side is put out we expect the same high standard; we just were not good enough in the first half. Saturday’s game against Ilminster is the most important of the season so far. Yes, we can say it’s in our hands with games still in hand, but we still need to put points on the board if we’re going to survive.”

Ilminster are second from bottom, but only two points behind Watchet. The teams were involved in a goalless draw in South Somerset when they last met in February.

“I’m hoping for the return of Bishop, Sully and Sherring but will still be without Jones (suspended), Walsh and Jeromson (injured),” added Knight.

Watchet have had the luxury of games in hand on teams around them but they have only six more fixtures left in the season - three at home and three away.

Watchet also face an away game against fifth-placed Middlezoy Rovers, who are some-way off the pace at the top of the table, next Tuesday.

Meanwhile Minehead, who lost 2-0 away to Welton Rovers Reserves in the first division last Saturday, entertain Uphill Castle tomorrow in an equally tough game.

Minehead, who trail leaders Timsbury Athletic by five points, finish the season with a run of five away matches - against Nailsea & Tickenham Reserves, Middlezoy Rovers Reserves, Staplegrove, Uphill Castle and Winscombe. Their last match is on Saturday, May 7.

Watchet’s last game of the season is also away on May 7 - to Nailsea United.