Ilminster Town extend winning run against Yatton & Cleeve

The Blues triumphed 6-2 with an energetic display, featuring a standout performance from Josh Phillips, who netted four times.

Jack Steer and Paulo Borges also contributed to the tally in a match that kept home fans entertained under the warm autumn sun.

The action started early, with a few half chances before Steer registered the first shot on target in the 12th minute.

A breakthrough came midway through the half when Thomas Lee played a defence-splitting pass to Phillips.

After rounding the goalkeeper, Phillips rolled the ball into the net, making it 1-0.

Dan Peach followed up with a superb run before feeding Phillips, who scored again to double the lead.

Taylor Jefferson then displayed remarkable skill, flicking the ball over a defender's head and finding Phillips with a well-placed through ball.

Phillips took the ball around the keeper, completing his hat-trick and putting the home side 3-0 up.

Yatton & Cleeve managed to pull a goal back early in the second half, but the three-goal cushion was quickly restored.

Jefferson was again the creator, crossing to Steer, who slotted home for 4-1.

The match became end-to-end as the visitors attacked again, scoring their second goal.

This sparked Ilminster back into action, with substitute Paulo Borges using his pace and strength to score, making it 5-2.

Phillips then added the final touch, netting his fourth goal of the match from close range, bringing his tally for the season to 12 goals in 13 starts.

Skipper Lee Sweet came close to making it seven, hitting the post in the last minute.

The comprehensive victory was a satisfying one for Ilminster, with Phillips being the standout player.

Jefferson also shone, providing four assists, while Harry Manley, playing in a more advanced role than usual, took home the player of the match award for his faultless performance.

Next week, Ilminster Town will face Glastonbury in the second round of the League Cup, kick-off at 3pm.