PAUL HIDER is set to be Bideford's first-choice goalkeeper for their title run-in.

The former Saltash United player was preferred to Grant Fisher for the league game against Halesowen Town on Saturday.

And he made a stunning save in the last minute, allowing Bideford to counter attack and confirm a 2-0 win with a goal from Jamie Mudge.

Sean Joyce, the Bideford manager, has decided to go with a more experienced keeper for key games in Evo-Stik League Southern.

"He's been brilliant," said Joyce. "He talks, he organises."

Fisher, who joined when Ollie Chenoweth returned to Plymouth Argyle in December, is still registered with the Robins.

"He was outstanding when he came here but in every game his confidence levels were dropping a bit," said Joyce.

The manager made no apologies for fielding a weakened team as Bideford lost 2-1 to Tiverton Town in the Westinsure Devon St Luke's Cup on Tuesday.

With a six-point lead at the top of first division south and west, their priority is to secure promotion.

"I don't want to lose but there are bigger fish to fry," said Joyce.

"We left seven first-teamers out from Saturday.

"We have got to be realistic with the squad we have got and the games we have got ahead of us. We have got 13 cup finals."

Bideford have used the St Luke's Cup and Red Insure Cup to look at fringe players this season.

"We have treated them for what they are," said Joyce. "Have we taken them seriously? Yes, to the extent that we want to win.

"We have kept the squad ticking over and given the subs game time.

"I'm disappointed now but in a couple of days I'll be over it."

The first of Bideford's "cup finals" comes at Clevedon Town on Saturday.

Without any more midweek fixtures, they are free to focus on the finishing line in first division south and west.

As they plan for the possibility of promotion, Bideford have announced a new three-year sponsorship deal with Atlantic Village.