MANAGER Shaun Middleton was full of praise for his Newquay players after they pulled off a stunning victory in Tuesday night’s cup replay at The Playing Fields.

The Peppermints headed up to Somerset without skipper Harry Downing and his regular centre-back partner Cam Turner who were both on holiday, but gave a debut to former Plymouth Argyle midfielder Jamie Lowry in defence alongside Ollie Butterworth.

Young winger Rhys Simmonds, a summer signing from Truro City Reserves, gave the Peppermints a 41st minute lead with a superb individual goal. Having received a pass from Ross Fallens on the left well inside his own half, he advanced down the flank before firing a shot into the far corner from just inside box.

Lowry’s first goal for the club, straight from a corner after 55 minutes, put the tie beyond reach.

Newquay now travel to Southern League Division One side Frome Town on Saturday, August 16, in the preliminary round (3pm).

Middleton said: “It was a really top performance from the boys after a long trip.

“We stayed strong, resilient and managed the game superbly; we looked extremely dangerous on the break and assured at the back.

“I’m super proud of how the lads performed.”

He added: “I feel we’ve played well so far this season but just fell on the wrong the side when it comes to results but hopefully that changes and we move forwards.

“A big thank you to Shepton, who were very welcoming, and we look forward to seeing them again.”

NEWQUAY: Brodie Cole; Jamie Edlin, Jamie Lowry, Ollie Butterworth, Tom Moxham; Aaron Dilley, Ross Fallens (capt); Louis Price (Jacob Grange), Jack Bray-Evans, Rhys Simmonds (Callam McOnie); Phil Lowry (Tom Shepherd). Subs not used: Harry Richards, Johan Allen.