BIRTHDAY boy Tom Bearwish revealed jokes of his new status as a “Weymouth legend” after netting a dramatic 94th-minute equaliser at rivals Yeovil Town.

Substitute Bearwish celebrated his 22nd birthday in fine style by nudging home Josh Leslie-Smith’s long throw, having only been on the pitch for eight minutes.

His strike earned Weymouth a 1-1 draw in their FA Cup fourth qualifying round tie.

Charlie Wakefield had put Yeovil ahead but with honours finishing even at Huish Park, the two sides will meet for a replay tomorrow night at the Bob Lucas Stadium (7.45pm).

And the second fixture has Bearwish’s total commitment, with the Portlander not tempted to celebrate his goal or birthday to excess.

He told Echosport: “The gaffer (Brian Stock) has just come over and said: ‘Make an impact’.

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“I like making late runs into the box and I just got a toe on it. It dropped over the centre forward’s head and I’ve just toed it in – bottom corner!

“It was my birthday as well so a little birthday goal? You can’t beat it, can you?

“I’ll go home, sit on the sofa and chill out. We’ve got a game (tomorrow).”

Bearwish was renowned for his skills as a striker during his youth, enjoying spells at Eastleigh, Dorchester Town and Portland United primarily as a forward man.

However, this season he has taken roles in defence and midfield for the Terras – a factor that did not hinder his finishing ability.

He said: “Even when I go further back down the pitch I’m always thinking goals. That feeling when I scored was amazing. I’ve always got that in my locker.”

Bearwish is hopeful of a place in the starting XI tomorrow but backed the Terras to come through and earn a first-round tie at Dover or Yate.

“Hopefully I’ve done enough to get a start,” he said. “It’s what subs are for, they come on and make an impact and I’ve done that.

“I’ll be happy either way, just to get on the pitch. I’ve heard I’m a Weymouth legend now. Massive game for the club, apparently!

“I think we’ve got a good chance at home with our fans, especially if they make the noise they did (on Saturday). Hopefully it will be a good game.”