BIDEFORD took a huge step towards the Toolstation Premier Division title with a 1-0 win at Welton Rovers this afternoon.

Ellis Laight scrambled home the winner midway through the first half as the Robins ground out a vital victory.

After their fluent football in the midweek win over Torquay United in the Westinsure Devon St Luke's Cup, this time they had to battle on a heavy pitch.

High-flying Welton piled on the pressure but were unable to find a way past a defence well marshalled by Darren Hawkings.

With a 12-point lead at the top, Bideford face another key away game, at Bishop Sutton on Wednesday night.

Bideford: Ryan Draper, Ben Wood, Nick Barker, Darren Hawkings, Rob Francis (Chris Brown 65), Dominic Rivans, Ian Down, Clay Bond, Matt Andrew (Kevin Squire 86), Ellis Laight, Ashley Yeoman (Matt Downing 69).