Biddy and Barum in promotion push

The year of 2024 could be very special for Bideford AFC, with the Robins chasing promotion from Division One South of the Southern Football League.

Christmas was kind to Bideford, as victories over Malvern Town and Tavistock extended their winning streak to five matches, and they enter the New Year just four points behind league leaders Wimborne Town and with a game in hand.

The festive period began with a solid win over Malvern Town on a windy day at the Sports Ground. Jordan Ewing opened the scoring with a sweet strike in off the post and he then turned provider for Jack Winsor to cross low into the penalty area, where Ryan Turner had a simple tap-in.

The points were wrapped up by a clever lobbed finish from Ewing on the hour and a reply from Malvern proved little consolation for the visitors.

A brace from Mattie Buchan brought the Boxing Day cheer for Bideford at Tavistock, starting with the first goal inside two minutes. Ewing again played a key role, picking out the perfect pass for Buchan to lash home.

The Robins controlled much of the first half at Langsford Park and eventually got the cushion of a second goal when Buchan slotted past the home custodian after being sent through one-on-one. A last-minute penalty from Tavistock’s Liam Prynn did little to dampen the Bideford joy.

Saturday’s meeting with Exmouth Town was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch and next on the agenda is a tricky game at Bristol Manor Farm, who are just three points behind the play-off pack. The Robins then have an intriguing double header with Cornish outfit Mousehole.

The excitement for Bideford could be matched by Barnstaple Town, where the dreams of promotion from the Western League are very much alive. Barum enter 2024 in fifth place and with games in hand on a number of the teams above them.

The big challenge will be turning draws into wins. Barum have only lost once in the league but seven draws from their 16 games have been a problem, although they demonstrated that winning trait with a superb 1-0 triumph at high-flying Buckland Athletic on Saturday. A penalty from Billy Tucker was enough to give Barnstaple maximum points.