BRIDPORT RESERVES 1 SWANAGE TOWN & HERSTON 0

TRISTAN Gale grabbed the only goal of the game as Bridport Reserves ended a run of four home matches without victory.

The narrow win over Swanage Town & Herston also helped the Bees all-but secure a top-seven finish in the Magna Dorset Premier League ahead of tonight’s visit of title-chasing Westland Sports (7.30pm).

Joint-boss Steve Crabb said: “It was quite a tight affair and the first half was pretty even.

“Both sides had a couple of half-chances but it was 0-0 at half-time.

“We played a bit better in the second half and we created one or two one-on-ones. Tristan created a few chances for himself and then scored about 10 minutes from the end with a shot from outside the box.

“Lee Cleal did make a good save from one of their lads at 0-0 but as the second half went on we looked the more likely to score.

“There wasn’t much between the two sides and we knew it was going to be tough. It was a tight game and we were pleased to get the three points.

“It probably secures seventh place for us so it was important to get the result so that we can try and enjoy ourselves against Westland.

“Tonight’s game means a lot to them so it should be a good game. It’s our last game of the season and although we have plenty to play for, there is no pressure on us at all.”

The Bees also gave a debut to Lyme Regis striker Joe Bond.

Crabb added: “He is one we are looking at. He played for an hour and did well in his first outing for us.”

Meanwhile, Crabb revealed that Dan Peart’s ankle injury, which he sustained last weekend, is not as bad as first feared.

The former said: “He is on crutches but it’s not broken, it’s badly bruised.”

Bees: Cleal, Day, A Clarke, Evans, Condliffe, Morgan, Lock, McAllister, Scovell (Bulman 70), Bond (Cummings 60), Gale (Hillyar 80).