AT the start of the season, Sean Downing challenged himself to score more goals.

Six was not a bad return last term as he stepped up to Southern League level for the first time.

But in the last eight games alone the Bideford winger has equalled that amount.

The decisive strike in the 1-0 win at Bishop's Cleeve on Saturday took him to double figures in first division south and west this season.

His willingness to break beyond defensive lines is one reason Bideford are in a strong position at the top of the league.

In a windswept game, the Robins had to be patient as they searched for the breakthrough.

Sean Joyce, the manager, said: "They played a high line and they caught us offside a few times but it only takes one player to be lazy, one lack of concentration, and that's what happened."

Downing had already seen one effort disallowed before he eluded the offside trap to slot the 31st-minute winner.

Matt Hockley was unable to keep his effort on target at the far post as they pressed for a second goal.

Against the wind in the second half, Bideford still looked the more threatening side.

Matt Andrew, with 11 league goals from midfield, almost made it 12 when his drive was well saved. Downing also had a close-range shot blocked.

Bishop's Cleeve, unbeaten in their previous six games, struggled to make chances and goalkeeper Grant Fisher was rarely called into action.

Aaron Harper-Penman, playing with a head bandage after the wound he suffered against Gosport Borough, had a solid game at the back.

And Bideford were good value for their tenth clean sheet of the season.

"It wasn't like defenders were throwing themselves in making blocks," said Joyce. "It was comfortable."