Uhlsport Somerset Premier Division: Chard Town 1-1 Stockwood Wanderers

Having not played since 25th November it was good to see a game go ahead Although player availability was a major issue for Chard Town this week.

An hour before KO he still wasn't sure who was playing. Six key players were working, away on holiday or injured. With a great squad of players some young Robins stepped up to the task.

Playing up the slope with an unrecognised back for was not easy. After only 11m a cross put in found the head of Ryan Chapple and into the net for his first goal for Stockwood Wanderers. It looked like Jason Contreras was fouled but the goal stood. A few chances were created at both ends and the Stockwood defenders clearing the ball out of the ground the first half came to a close.

Playing down the slope gave the defence and midfield a bit of respite and chances were created for Chard but no goal was scored.

Until the 73m a shot from Joe Chamberlain hit the post and James Boyland was the first to react and put the ball in to the goal. In the closing minutes Chard started to get on top and it was looking like they were going to get the winning goal, Joe Chamberlain went close a few times and in the final few minutes the sub on his debut Will just couldn't get high enough to head in the winner.

The final whistle blew and the young Robins were exhausted after a good afternoons shift against a very strong robust team like Stockwood Wanderers.

A draw was a good point with the team that was out on the pitch. Ryan Mason the captain for the day and an emergency centre back marshalled the team brilliantly. Alongside him Ryan Lewis also playing out of position didn't put a foot wrong.

The Board boys in midfield and the two forwards up front. Jason Contreras was solid again in goal. A great sight to see the football club being successful.

Off the field the Chard community supported us at our Christmas Bingo on Friday night and our Christmas Draw after the game. Our fundraising and events team are working hard. Sponsors are always sought after as it's the only way we can survive.

Pitchside boards are a great way to get noticed, but the club also have match day packages and shirt sponsors are needed for next season.

The Robins next match is the Boxing Day Derby at Ilminster KO 12pm which is always an entertaining game.