The growing ethos of team spirit at Barnstaple Town Football Club

An early goal at Paulton Rovers was enough to condemn Barnstaple Town to a 1-0 defeat in the opening weekend of the Jewson Western League season.

The game was ultimately decided on just five minutes, when a shot from Kitan Jaiyeoba was parried by Barum goalkeeper Josh Nicol. The ball fell to Kyle Witt, who was also blocked, but the final rebound was tucked away by Jaiyeoba.

Despite that setback, Barum responded with some excellent possession football and there were glimpses of a bright season ahead, but credit to Paulton for their tireless running and defensive shape.

The pattern remained the same after the break, as Barum did force a couple of saves from the home custodian but Paulton held on for all three points.

Ahead of the new season at Mill Road, Barnstaple Town chairman Paul Larter penned the below message to the club supporters:

“So, another season is now upon us - I have to be honest, I feared at one point not too long ago that we would not have got this far. But we have, and that’s thanks to you all.

“So far as the football management and players are concerned, you guys are our Super Heroes. You have been through some uncertain times, but you have given so much and are a real credit to this club. I’m personally proud of all of you and lucky to call you friends.

“Football is a game that gives you the greatest memories, the greatest heartaches and also the greatest friends. There are definitely challenges ahead, and no doubt there will be good times and bad, highs and lows and whatever the coming season holds. We know you’ll all give it your very best and you’ll know we are all 100% behind you.

“Finally, to everyone who has the best interests of BTFC at heart: we are One Club, together as One Big Team - a team above all, above all a team.”

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Elsewhere across the Western League, Ivybridge Town made the biggest statement with a 7-0 walloping of St Austell, while the midweek visitors to Mill Road, Buckland Athletic, fought back from a half-time deficit to defeat league newcomers Newquay 3-1.

Sidmouth Town, the other side promoted from the Peninsula League, did themselves no dishonour in only losing 1-0 at Clevedon Town, who only missed out on going up to the Southern League in last season’s play-off final. There were also wins for Helston Athletic, Saltash United, Shepton Mallet and Street.

Bideford AFC completed their pre-season schedule with a 6-0 demolition of Peninsula League outfit Bovey Tracey. The goals came from Ryan Turner, Scott Robinson, Frank Rosenwald (2), Jordan Ewing and Charlie Wright.