WIMBORNE’S victory over Southern League rivals Mangotsfield United at Cuthbury was overshadowed by injury to leading marksman Matt Kemble.

The striker has been ruled out for the rest of the season after sustaining torn ligaments in his shoulder when he fell awkwardly midway through the second half.

Kemble, who will miss the Dorset Senior Cup final, discovered the full extent of the damage following X-rays at Poole Hospital on Saturday night.

The Magpies ended a three-match winless run in Division One South & West when Jamie Davidson settled the issue with a stunning volley after just five minutes.

Boss Steve Cuss told the Daily Echo: “Although we were delighted with the result and it was a good performance, the game was marred for us by Matt’s injury as he was in a lot of pain.

“He has been terrific for us. He stepped up from the Wessex League and has scored 18 goals, which is a fair return for him. His performances have been good and he has established himself at Southern League level.

“Everybody is so disappointed his season has ended in this way. It is important he gets the right rehabilitation during the summer and gets himself back and ready for the start of next season.”

An inspired display from Mangotsfield goalkeeper Chris Astley stood between Wimborne and a more convincing victory, although the hosts were forced to endure a nervous finale.

Cuss added: “We were pleased. We got ourselves in front early and gave ourselves something to hang on to. We defended well throughout the game and, if truth be told, we probably could have gone on to get more goals. We played well at both ends of the pitch.”

Wimborne meet Dorchester Town in the final of the Dorset Senior Cup at Hamworthy United’s County Ground tomorrow (7.45pm).

Magpies: Ackerman, Arnold, Cole, Roast, Peprah-Annan, Webb, Hubbard, Hill, Davidson, Jeffes (Magookin, 87), Kemble (Hunt, 65). Unused subs: Brian, Battison, Fisher (g/k).