BIDEFORD made a significant step towards the Toolstation Premier Division title with another resilient away performance on Saturday.

Just as they did at Ilfracombe Town in January, the Robins returned with a 1-0 win from the home of a fellow front-runner.

This time third-placed Welton Rovers were the victims of a team that know how to pass or graft their way through games.

Manager Sean Joyce said: "On the Tuesday night against Torquay United (in the Westinsure Devon St Luke's Cup) we played some lovely stuff with pace and purpose. Saturday was one massive scrap.

"It wasn't dirty but the conditions were heavy and it was touch and go whether it would be on.

"Football wise it was probably a non-event, but the performance we put in was determined and strong-minded. It reminded me of the Ilfracombe game."

In-form Ellis Laight struck his sixth goal in eight games, giving Biddy their ninth win from the last 10 fixtures. Previous Bideford teams under Joyce have put together runs as they have closed in on championships.

"When we have won the league over the years, a lot of games have been like that where you go away and win 1-0 or 2-1," said Joyce.

"To win this league it's a nine-month battle and you've got to adapt to all conditions.

"You play on a rock-hard surface one week and the next week you're knee deep in mud."

Laight settled a game of few chances midway through the first half.

One central defender miskicked and the other slipped, allowing the long-serving forward to slide a left-foot shot underneath the goalkeeper.

Midway through the second half Matt Downing went on at wing-back and Ben Wood was pushed forward to use his pace against tiring defenders.

"That was the game-plan and it nearly worked because he got away, one on one with the keeper and you expect him to score," said Joyce.

Wood dashed on to a flick from Laight but Tristan Westlake pushed his shot around the post.

A goal there would have eased the late pressure.

Goalkeeper Ryan Draper held one powerful effort and pushed a header over the bar as the hosts pressed for the equaliser.

Defeat for Welton was just their second in 16 matches, both coming against Bideford.

"I think that's Welton out of it now," said Joyce who is still wary of Willand Rovers making a charge to threaten the Robins' runaway lead.

"I haven't taken my eye of them all season. They're an experienced squad, they have been together for years and they have got the ability to go on and win this league."