Weston-super-Mare’s pursuit of promotion from the National League South took a hit when Chelmsford City avenged an earlier FA Cup loss by defeating the Seagulls 1-0. The decisive goal came from former Nottingham Forest and Charlton striker Lyle Taylor, who converted a penalty with just six minutes remaining.
This defeat leaves Weston-super-Mare in third place, trailing league leaders Worthing by two points. Worthing, who drew against play-off hopeful Horsham, remain ahead, with Hornchurch holding second spot after a 2-0 triumph over Eastbourne.
Amidst this setback, Weston-super-Mare announced they have exercised an option in Louis Britton’s contract to extend his stay for another season at The Optima. Manager Scott Rogers praised Britton’s contributions since joining late last season, noting his impressive physicality and aerial ability despite early fitness challenges.
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“Louis has shown great development,” Rogers said. “After adjusting to our squad’s fitness levels, he has consistently scored goals and led the line impressively, especially after we brought in Scott Wilson as both competition and strike partner. With continued fitness improvements, I am confident Louis will be pivotal in our promotion push next season.”
Meanwhile, at the bottom of the table, Chippenham’s recent positive form faltered dramatically, losing 4-1 at home to in-form Ebbsfleet. The visitors asserted dominance with multiple goals around halftime and early in the second half, while Chippenham’s consolation goal came deep into injury time from Olaf Koszela.
Bath City edged closer to the relegation zone after a 1-0 defeat to Dover, where Jalen Jones scored the only goal early in the match. Salisbury, in contrast, extended their safety margin with a 1-0 victory at Dagenham & Redbridge thanks to a late goal by new signing Nathan Odokonyero.
In the National League North, Hereford remain in the relegation zone despite holding King’s Lynn to a goalless draw in a spirited contest. Both teams failed to break the deadlock, leaving Hereford with plenty of ground to make up with several games still to play.