Seasiders give City a County Cup scare

City narrowly beat Clevedon Town by three goals to two this evening at The Hand Stadium to reach the Somerset Premier Cup 2nd Round. Fielding a full first team starting XI – including the return of keeper Ryan Clarke – when Eddie Jones headed home from Elliott Frear’s 3rd minute cross it looked like it would be a comfortable evening for the Romans. However, the Western League Seasiders had other ideas and on 17 minutes levelled through Feltham’s well-struck shot. City restored their lead five minutes later when Omar Holness fired past home keeper Smith from 20 yards. The hosts were back on terms nine minutes before half-time, Camper netting from the penalty spot after Joe Raynes had tripped Ferris in the box. City had an escape just before the hour mark, Ferris heading a great chance wide, and a couple of minutes later Tom Richards set up Cody Cooke to net from 12 yards. There was to be no third comeback from Clevedon after this, as City were only denied further goals through good saves by Smith from Alex Fletcher and substitute Ethan Cannings.