United built on their battling display against league leaders Brixington Blues last week with a well deserved first win of the season against Pinhoe Warriers. It was Pinhoe who started the brighter of the two teams however and United keeper Alex Trevena was forced into a good early save diving low to his right.

United gradually came back into the game with man of the match Jason Mann a constant threat down the right wing. His lightning pace and dangerous crosses enabled United to put constant pressure on the Pinhoe goal. United took the lead when a Keenan Paver corner was turned into the net from close range by Lewis Miller, scoring his first goal of the season.

United had several opportunities to extend their lead with chances falling to Joe Walker and Bradley but their efforts were off target. Pinhoe also posed a threat in attack and when Keeper Trevena was beaten, the excellent Luke Bland cleared off the line to maintain United's lead.

In central midfield Sam Skinner and George Mears battled, tackled and chased down every loose ball to ensure United went into the half time break with their lead in tact. Pinhoe came out all guns blazing in the second half but Unitedâ€^TMs back line all had excellent games. Keeper Trevena has given the defence great confidence since his arrival. Full-backs Jamie Waller and Keenan Paver both played well, closing down the Pinhoe wide players and denying them space. In the middle of defence Luke Bland chased down every through ball and the dependable Josh Phillips was timing all his tackles to perfection.

Ethan Stoyle's also slotted seamlessly into the full back position when brought on to replace Paver. Pinhoe's pressure however brought a deserved equaliser with 20 minutes to go when a shot from inside the six yard box found its way into the corner of the net. But United were in determined mood and kept their heads up despite this set back. Joe Walker was put through on goal but was fouled as he bore down on goal.

The Pinhoe keeper then made a good save from the resulting free kick, hit from distance by Bland. Bailey Gray then held the ball up well and his flick on to Mann almost put the wide man through on goal again. With 6 minutes to go United regained the lead. A United corner was partially cleared by Pinhoe, but the ball fell to Mann on the edge of the box and his half volley on the turn sailed into the roof of the net .

Pinhoe immediately responded by putting pressure on the United goal in search of an equaliser, but United kept their shape and composure to see out the remainder of the match and record a well deserved victory against good opposition.

The Comets got off to a flyer scoring within minutes of the match starting and were soon lucky to be two nil up due to an unfortunate mix up in the Dynamoes defence. This only served to rally the Dynamoes and for the next 20 minutes the match flowed from end to end with the Dynamoes getting on the score sheet to make it two one. However before half time the Comets restored their two goal advantage.

The second half was a different affair, CW Dynamoes did have beak away chances but the industrious nature of the Comets midfield ensured the ball was constantly put back into the Dynamoes danger area. A particular mention must go to the (as ever) hard working Conor Goldsmith and Aaron Dare who took the match and stamped his mark upon it, eventually scoring the goal of the game with a stunning left foot drive high into the far corner of the goal from outside the box and which no keeper at this age would have stood a chance with.

The other goals were shared out with Jonathan Kirk getting two, Charlie Jordan & Fergus Moore* getting one a piece. Another mention must go to William Gregory who gave his best performance of the season as he tackled and ran his heart out for the whole game. It was these efforts and attitude that unsettled the CW Dynamoes and got the Comets off to a great start. His efforts were rewarded because as well as creating for others he managed to bag himself a hatrick, he may even be claiming four*!

Comets Man Of The Match: Aaron Dare.

The Comets would on paper start this game as favourites and the body language prior to the start of the game suggested they thought it was going to be a straight forward day and they would just get the win .... Not so Stoke Hill were well organised and with their classy forward and strong backline they played some great football and at times made the Comets look very ordinary.

The Comets had their moments and it was through a well taken Connor Goldsmith goal that they took the lead midway through the first half after some good football that saw them play through Stoke Hill backline.  The Comets man of the match Jack Wheaton pulled off two tremendous saves before he was beaten with what turned out to be an easy goal which the majority of the Comets stood and watched happen. Not long after the equaliser and with their tails up Stoke Hill took the lead with a great goal to make it 2 -1 to the hosts, a score line that remained til half time.

The Comets came out for the second half looking to get back in the game with some good chances in the early moments, but the Comets defence was undone again and Stoke extended their lead to 3 - 1.  The Comets unbeaten run was looking in danger and heads were down as Stoke continued to dominate much of the game. A late surge saw the Comets try to get back into the game, but it was too late. Stoke Hill ran out deserved winners in this encounter, but the Comets can learn a great deal from today's defeat and I am sure they will come back  a stronger and more determined side for next weeks game.

A mention should be given to the Stoke Hill dad who officiated over the game and did a great job and the superbly sporting attitude of the Stoke Hill players in general

Comets MOTM: Jack Wheaton

The Dynamoe's started the better of the 2 teams having more of the play and creating more of the chances. The Brixington keeper was in good form and needed to make several very good saves in the first half to deny the Dynamoe's attackers.

On a few occasions where the keeper was beaten the ball was unfortunately just off target keeping the scores level. Brixington had a few chances through out the half but were lucky to be going in level at half time. the second half followed the same format as the first with the Dynamoe's slightly on top and Brixington relying on a combination of good goal keeping and slightly off target shhoting to stay in the game.

It came as a surprise when a corner from Brixington wasn't cleared and a scramble in front of goal went Brixington's way with the ball dropping just right for their forward to knock the ball through a crowd of players into the back of the net. Dynamoe's responded and raised their game further but the Brixington keeper was still proving a hard obstacle to beat. Dynamoe's won a corner and their new signing Ryan Garrett took the corner, swinging it in towards the near post. Confusion between the keeper and the brixington player on the post saw the ball squeeze between both before crossing the line and nestling in the far corner.

This was no more than the Dynamoe's deserved. The rest of the match was pretty even with neither team wanting to conceed another goal, but as the final whiste came it was the Dynamoes who will look on this as points dropped. They will however be pleased with their first point in many weeks and will look to build on this in the weeks to come.

This was a thrilling cup game played out by both teams on an extremely difficult pitch, which had not been played on for 2 months and the boggy surface was a defenders nightmare. Alphington took an early lead when Jake Moxey forced a shot over the line, but Westexe were soon level after a mix up in the Alphas defence.

The rest of the half was end to end with both teams trading goals, but no one ever getting more than one goal in front with the half time score 4 - 4. The Alphas other 1^st half scorers were man of the match Sam Webber, James Probert with a great finish and a George Richards deflected shot.  Alphington went ahead again in the 2^nd half through Connor Garmendia, but again Westexe drew level and then went ahead with a long range free kick.

With 10 minutes to go and the score at 6 - 5 Westexe were awarded a penalty, which would have killed the game off, but the powerfully taken kick smashed against the cross bar. This was the turning point with Jordan Daniels soon levelling before Sam Jarman scored a last minute winner for Alphington.

It was a shame any team had to lose this great game.

Another cold, but dry, sunny morning saw the Comets play the game that would see them draw level on games played with League leaders Brixington Blues, and knowing that a win would bring them to within 2 points, the Comets needed to be on their game against a much improved Crediton side.  

The Comets started playing with a high line and kept Crediton penned in to their own half for the much of the opening 10 minutes, although they were struggling to get any shots off as they were continually adjudged to be offside.  Crediton had a couple ventures out of their own half before the Comets came back at them.  In the 18 minute Jonathan Kirk finally beat the offside trap unleashed a powerful shot that ricocheted off the crossbar.  It took a further 6 minutes before the opening goal of the game which eventually turned out to be a simple tap in from Louis Phillips, but not before a fantastic run from mid-field by pocket dynamo Dan Foster who pushed the ball into Phillips' feet.  Around the 30 minute mark Crediton had another let off after the ball was put through their backline and the pace of Jonathan Kirk saw him beat the defenders to the ball and it took a brave bit of goalkeeping from the Crediton keeper to keep the ball out.  It only delayed the inevitable as 5 minutes later Kirk was back into the penalty area after a pacey down the right wing after brushing off a strong challenge in the area he managed to push the ball under the keeper at the near post, making it 2-0 at half time. 

Crediton started the second half at a much higher tempo and initially it caused the Comets a few issues and allowed Crediton to have a couple of chances on goal.  After a short spell the Comets regained their composure and with the pressure they were applying forced a corner which was taken short for Christian Ellis to knock in a great cross which was met by Phillips who made no mistake in putting the ball in the back of the net making it 3-0.  

With the first attack after the re-start Crediton game themselves a lifeline with a well taken long range shot that gave Jack Wheaton no chance.  Less than 5 minutes later Phillips got his hat-trick after the keeper could only parry the ball out from a Dan Foster shot which came at the end of yet another mazy run from the midfield.  The re-start saw the Comets well and truly asleep as Crediton walked through them before firing in a high shot to the right top corner, that again gave Wheaton no chance to stop.  Crediton's second goal seemed to inspire them and they started throwing everything at the Comets to try and get the third, and for large parts of the remainder of the half Crediton were the better side.  But with time running out, and Crediton pressing the Comets broke out and forced another corner that was pumped in by Jeff Angila for Jonathan Kirk to slot away an unchallenged goal.  5-2 was the final score, another great effort from the Comets as a team unit.  Well done lads.  

Man of the Match:  Dan Foster

On a bright but cold day, Brixington Utd and Countess Wear Dynamoes competed in an eagerly awaited match for both teams.

The early exchanges went to Brixington as they came close with a couple of shots. This seemed to wake the Dynamoes up with Callum forcing an oustanding save from the Brixington keeper. With the scores 0-0 at half-time, Brixington started the second half the brighter and duly got a goal when the Dynamoes failed to clear a corner. Minutes later, debutant Ryan took a corner which evaded everyone in the box and went straight in.

This seemed to spur the Dynamoes on in search for a winner. However, Brixington were not in the mood to let Dynamoes get another goal, and could have easily won the game themselves. On reflection, a draw was the fair result for both teams, with neither team deserving to lose the game.

The Comets continued their great start to the season with another hard working performance and team effort. The Comets threatened the Warriors goal several times in the early stages through clever turns and hold up play from Jack Challice on the Comets left. But it was Pocket Dynamo Daniel Foster who opened the scoring with a well struck shot from distance after being put through by Charlie Jordan. The Comets had further chances in the first half with Conor Goldsmith playing clever simple football and William Gregory working hard to threaten the Pinhoe goal, but also not forgetting his defensive duties when he was dropped back into midfield. The Comets seemed to be looking for the perfect goal rather than pulling the trigger when the opportunity presented itself. Pinhoe were not without chances but the combination of strong stubborn tackling and quick to recover pace from Jeff Angila and Matthew Preece meant Jack Wheaton in the Comets goal had little to deal with in the way of chances on target.

The second half started evenly, but the Pinhoe midfield began to win the battle for possession and this allowed them to come forward in numbers to threaten the Comets goal. Pinhoe were rewarded when a clearance that only went along the ground was struck back strongly and sailed over the advancing Comets defence and goal keeper to make it 1-1. The Comets and Jonathan Kirk in particular continued to press, creating several one on one chances with Pinhoe's goal keeper, but JK's normal clinical finishing was deserting him on each occasion, however several of these chances were made by his own willingness to run and put defenders under pressure, so there were many positives to be taken from these efforts. About the 50 minute mark Louis Phillips showed JK how it was done with a great solo effort rounding the keeper to score. Five minutes later strong running and upper body strength allowed Phillips to break into the area from the left and squeeze a shot into the far corner to make it 3-1. Another Comets attack saw a perfect low cross from Fergus Moore, but Pinhoe managed to scramble the ball clear.

Pinhoe continued to do better in midfield and launched several attacks down their left side, however tracking back by Goldsmith and others allowed Edward McKenna to mop up most threats. With Pinhoe having a good period in the match the reliable Billy Smith kept working hard to mix things up and blunt any Pinhoe progression down the centre. When Pinhoe tried the left side it was Ajay Dev & Aaron Dare who managed to get the foot in to tackle and clear the Comets lines.

Kirk is a natural born striker and was not to be denied, so when through with 10 minutes to go he put the ball in the bottom left corner to make it 4-1 and give the Comets a little breathing space.  However Pinhoe rallied and created plenty of possession in or around the Comets goal area which rewarded them with another high, but well struck effort to make it 4-2. More Pinhoe pressure in the last 6 minutes saw Jack Wheaton dive to his left to palm away conceding the corner. But Wheaton saved the best until last, and may not have known too much about it as his instincts came in to play when Pinhoe broke down the right and produced a good cross along the ground for the on rushing striker to side foot home, however Wheaton spread himself to save with his feet and then watch as the ball bounced the wrong side of the post for Pinhoe, and out for another corner. Shortly after the corner the Comets were a bit relived to hear the final whistle, resulting in a hard fought 4-2 win to maintain them in second place in the table.

Comets Man Of The Match: Billy Smith.

The 11 players of Heavitree Comets eventually ran out comfortable winners against a very determined Central side that initially started with 8 players until they reached 10 after 10 minutes of play, when the later arrivals turned up. 

Ironically, it wasn't until Central had 10 players that the Comets started to play their better football and the 11^th minute saw them go in front with a well taken finish from Jonathan Kirk.  The Comets continued to apply pressure to get another goal, but came undone when the combined pace of Central's number 9 and number 11 saw them run in on goal and although stand-in keeper EIliott Murch came out to meet the ball, he let it slip between his legs making it 1-1.  With 5 minutes of the first half remaining, Kirk got his second of the day after being put through with a great pass from Charlie Jordan.  In time added on at the end of the first half Aran Dare made it 3-1 to the Comets, with a great assist from Jack Challice.  

With the Comets in the ascendency they started the second half strongly and within minutes were 4-1 up with a superb 25 yard left footed strike from Matt Preece (clearly Exeter City's Harley was watching the game as his second goal for City in the afternoon as a carbon copy).  The scoreline at this point doesn't reflect the magnificent spirit and skill of the Central backline and goalkeeper, who was outstanding.  

The Comets went on to score 3 more goals in quick succession, with Kirk getting his hat-trick, Charlie Jordan made it 6-1 before Fergus Moore made it 7-1.  Central weren't done yet though, and immediately from the re-start they pulled a goal back.  Murch came out to meet the first shot which he stopped, but was lobbed with the second effort from the re-bound.  

Two players that stood out for the Comets on the day were Edward McKenna, who made some fantastic challenges at the back preventing Central from getting through on goal, and Dan Foster who run tirelessly throughout the game and it was his cross in the dying moments that forced the Central defender to make a mistake putting the goal into his own net making it 8-2 final score. 

Comets Man of the Match: Edward McKenna

This was a thrilling game of football played out in a great spirit between both sides.

Alphington took the lead early on when Sam Webber scored a long range free kick, but Stoke Hill soon hit back with two quick goals. The Alphas were not behind for long though when Corrie Gloyn hit a speculative long range effort, which flew over the keepers head. Once again Stoke Hill came back and went in at half time three two up.

This lead was extended in the second half, but Alphington's team spirit shone through as first Jake Moxey, with his first goal of the season, and then Sam Jarman drew them level again. Stoke Hill thought they had won it late on, but the Alphas would not be denied with Jordan Daniels blasting one into the top corner to earn both sides a point. Stand in goalkeeper George Richards played well, but Alphington's man of the match was an outstanding Billy Worth.

Christmas came early for St Martins, as Honiton gifted at least 4 goals to the visitors.  This, the first league meeting between these 2 sides, should on form have been a close affair.  Honiton's usual passing game deserted them, as the visitors were first to every ball and won all of the 50/50 challenges.  St Martin's took the lead midway through the first half and never looked back.  Harry Jobson equalised for Town, before the visitors added 2 more goals before half time to lead 1-3. 

St Martins threatened to run riot in the second half and scored 4 goals without reply as the home side wilted.  Before the end Honiton pulled a goal back through Todd Beanlands, after the keeper could only parry Benjie Cramer's effort.  On the day, Honiton were simply not good enough and the assembled parents agreed that it was probably their worst ever performance and one to forget.  Next week they travel to Exeter to meet Central. 

United's hopes for a first league win of the season were dashed within the first 3 minutes of this entertaining encounter. Honiton scored from their first two attacks of the day as United were very slow out of the blocks. United had been in decent form in recent weeks and they gradually recovered to put some presure on a very well organised Honiton defence.

Joe Walker flashed a shot just wide and United created several other chances, but the ball just failed to drop kindly in the box to enable them to get a shot on goal. At the other end Honiton also had several chances to extend their lead. United have struggled to master the offside rule at times this year and Josh Phillips, Luke Bland and Keenan Paver needed to use all their pace on several occasions to get some quality last ditch defending in to keep Honiton at bay.

Jamie Waller also found himself in the right place at the right time to block a further Honiton attack and usher the ball back to keeper Lewis Miller. In midfield Sam Skinner and Robert Croal battled away, getting in some important challenges and linked well with Owen Corrick, Jason Mann and Bailey Gray, as United tried to reduce the arrears. However it was Honition who extended their lead to put themselves 3-0 up at the break.

A forth goal just after the break followed by an unfortunate fifth from United's perspective seemed to have sewed the game up for the Town. However United play with great spirit and always give 100% until the final whistle and it was these attributes that sparked their second half revival. First Owen Corrick smashed a shot into the top corner after United engineered their best passing move of the match.

Robert Croal then thumped a stunning lob over the Honiton keeper to pull back a second and when Corrick added a third with another fine shot into the net from the edge of the box a shock come back was on the cards. Croal also had a curling free kick cleared off the line by the Honiton defender. However credit to Honiton who steadied the ship and re-applied pressure on the United goal.

Their efforts produced a further two goals before the final whistle ended this fine game which was a credit to both clubs.

So United's search for their first win continues. With 8 games under their belt Manager Adam Miller will now know the best positions for all his squad and if they can now consistently play, learn and develop in those positions to match their spirit and commitment then a first league win will not be far away.

Having met last week in the cup, Honiton made the short trip to Exmounth, to face a United side looking for their first win of the season.  Honiton for their part, knew victory would see them move to the top of the table.  The visitors were ahead in under a minute, when Lewis Doe picked out Neil Parris, who finished from the edge of the box.  Town increased their lead a minute later, again through Parris.  Honiton's defence played well throughout, in particular, Man of the Match Daniel Hole.  Enjoying large periods of possession, Honiton were always likely to add to their tally and it was Doe who added a third before half time.

Seeking to put the result beyond doubt, Honiton added a forth through Owen McCreadie-Taylor, before a shot by Doe was deflected to make it 0-5.  Town were now guilty of relaxing and allowed United to score 3 goals with out reply.  A well taken dipping free kick, looked destined to bring them a forth, but was headed off the line and behind for a corner.  Honiton's mini crisis over, they raced back to score 2 further goals from Ben Facey and Harry Jobson.  Brixington, should take much heart from this game and their first win may not be far away.  As for Honiton, they entertain high flying Heavitree Comets next week. 

Alphington enjoyed a comfortable victory in the 2^nd round of the cup against a determined Bradninch side.

 Jordan Daniels netted 5 times in a man of the match performance, Sam Webber scored 4, Matt Cram scored 2 and Sam Jarman, Dylan Thorne, Corrie Gloyn and Billy Worth all were on the score sheet in the 16 - 0 victory.

Credit must go to Bradninch, who which never gave in and kept battling to the end.

Honiton progressed to the Quarter Finals, with victory over a spirited Brixington United side.  Both sides should be congratulated for their efforts in coping admirably with appalling weather conditions.  Special praise should go to referee Ally Salter, whose style and manner added benefit to this contest.  For the first time this season, Honiton had a full squad available and welcomed back Kieran Renton in goal following a long illness.  This in turn allowed Todd Beanlands to return up front and it was his goal on 17minutes that broke the deadlock.  In a thirteen minute spell, the home side added 4 more goals, courtesy of Neil Parris, Lewis Doe and a brace from Owen McCreadie-Taylor to lead 5-0 at half time. 

Brixington, started the second half the better of the two sides and their efforts were rewarded, with a well taken free kick.  The visitors, had further opportunities to reduce the lead and came closest, when they had a shot cleared off the line.  On 50 minutes, Harry Jobson added Town's sixth.  The remainder of the contest was played out in driving rain and players and spectators alike welcomed the final whistle.

Honiton Observing the minutes silence prior to Kick Off.


Games between these two well matched sides are always entertaining and Saturday's renewal at St Rita's proved no exception.  Following an immaculately observed minutes silence, both teams started brightly, with Alphington just edging the early exchanges.  It was however, Honiton who took the lead, when Neil Parris found himself in space on the left, rounded the keeper and finished cooly.  Alphington, were not behind for long and their equaliser came from a long range effort that was still rising as it hit the net.  Both teams had chances to take the lead and both goalkeepers were forced to make good saves, as play flowed from end to end.  Owen McCreadie-Taylor put Town ahead once more, with a great shot from wide on the left.  Before half time, Alphington equalised. 

The Honiton boys, always seem to up their game in the second half and they took the lead once more when McCreadie-Taylor added his second.  Not to be out done, Alphington once more hit back to level the scores at 3-3.  The large pitch now appeared to play its part.  Suddenly, Honiton were finding more and more space and causing problems for the Alphington defenders.  McCreadie-Taylor completed his hat trick, but still the visitors refused to accept defeat and hit back, 4-4.  Honiton finally grapped all 3 points, when Parris scored his second and Ben Facey hit a screamer after a good run down the left. 

Both Mangers agreed a draw was a fair result and a number of the goals reinforced their view that full size goals for this age group are too big and do little to aid goalkeepers development. 

Man of the Match:  Owen McCreadie-Taylor.

These 2 teams have a history of good closely fought games and this one was no different.

Alphington started the game very well and dominated the early exchanges but fell behind to Honiton's first real chance of the game. This did not put the Alphas off their game and they were soon level when George Richards scored what is now becoming his trade mark long range effort. Shortly afterwards a Richards free kick was not dealt with by Honiton and Dylan Thorne was on hand to bury the loose ball. Honiton were now growing stronger and getting a foot hold in the game and scored an equaliser to send the sides in level at half time.

Both sides started the 2^nd half well and the Alphas went ahead again through Jordan Daniels before Honiton once again drew level. After Daniels had netted his second to put Alphington 4 - 3 up, Honiton started to knock the ball around well and were finding gaps in the Alphas defence. They drew level before two late goals gave Honiton victory 6 -4.

This was an entertaining game and although Honiton came stronger into the game a draw would have probably been a fair result, but credit to Honiton for taking their chances.

Man of the match for Alphington was Sam Allen who was outstanding in defence.

A frustrating game to watch for both sets of supporters and for differing reasons, is how I would describe this game.

2^nd placed Comets came into this game off the back of a 5 - 0 defeat against the blues last week and a defeat for the United lads last Saturday should have meant that both teams would be looking to bounce back with a win. Neither side got started in the first half, in fairness Brixington United's defensive play and the Comets reluctance to think about the off-side rule nullified any chance of them scoring and the hard work of Jeff Angila at the back for the Comets saw any chances United may have had repelled with ease.

The second half started with United looking the better side  and if it had not been for some brave goalkeeping the saw Jack Wheaton smoother the ball at the feet of the United striker the Comets would have been a goal behind.  United continued to pressurise the Comets and playing a high line worked well for them as the Comets were struggling to stay onside. United had another opportunity to go in front with a great strike across goal that  had Jack Wheaton beaten, but fortunately for the Comets it went narrowly wide.

The last 10 minutes of the game saw the Comets finally wake up, but with all the pressure they were applying  it was still too little too late although they did come close with a couple of chances.

The game ended even and United can hold their heads high knowing the gutsy performance they gave was rewarded with their 2^nd point of the season.

Comets MOTM: Jack Wheaton

Alphington go off to a fast start against Brixington and were soon ahead after George Richards hit a 25 yard scorcher. Richards was on target shortly afterwards after firing in his second after a good run in the box and he completed his hat trick within the first 20 minutes from the penalty spot after Sam Jarman had been brought down.

The Alphas continued to press and extended their advantage when Dylan Thorne scored another long range effort. Brixington pulled a goal back before the break, but a second from Thorne gave Alphington a 5 - 1 half time lead.

The second half was a lot closer with Brixington upping their game and both teams traded two goals apiece, with Sam Jarman and Jordan Daniels scoring his first goal for the team ensuring a 7 - 3 victory for Alphington. Hat trick hero George Richards was man of the match.

Top of the table clashes often unfold fantastic games of football, but with the Comets having 4 keys players missing due to them feeling the urge to go and watch Portsmouth get their first home win of  the season and 3 new faces playing their first game for the Comets, it was going to be an uphill battle against a strong and skillful Brixington Blues.

From the outset it was clear both sides had no intention of sitting back and for every forward move the Comets put together the Blues were ready to counter. The first goal of the game came around the 8 minute mark after  a mistake on the right wing allowed the Blues to run in on goal and fire past stand in keeper Elliott Murch to make it 1 - 0 , straight from the restart the Blues were back down the throats of the Comets and slammed in a second goal.  The Blues continued to press but Jeff Angila was like a rock at the back for the Comets and with his spirited defensive skills he continued providing the ball to the midfield who at times came close to penetrating a very well organised Brixington defence, but the score remained 2 - 0 when the half time whistle arrived.

The second half saw the Blues take more control of the game and a well finished corner early in the 2^nd half pretty much killed the game off, Blues went on to score two more goals to make the final score 5 - 0 and to take them 3 points clear of the Comets at the top of the table, but with a game in hand the Comets are still looking good.

Brixington were deserved winners today , the score line was a tad flattering but with such a makeshift team and some good performances from the three debutants the Comets can surely look forward to more success with their future games.

Comets MOTM: Elliott Murch

The Dynamoes struggled to get going in the early part of this match and Stoke hill took advantage of this by keeping the Dynamoes under pressure and notching up a 4 goal lead. The Dynamoes fought hard to get back in the game but a strong defence and good goalkeeping kept them at bay and Stoke Hill went further into the lead just before half time.

The Dynamoes came out for the second half looking like a different team, their passing was sharper and movement on and off the ball more purposeful. They pressed hard to get a goal back and on more than one occasion broke through the Stoke hill defence but were unable to capitalize on it. Unfortunately the improved defending buy the Dynamoes was unable to withstand the Stoke Hill attack and 2 more goals were scored as we approached the half way point of the second half.

At seven behind you would think the Dynamoes would have no fight left but they pressed on and showed the form that won them promotion last year, passing the ball well and working as a team very well. Stoke Hill were unable to contain the Dynamoes and for a few minuets it was Stoke Hill who were struggling.

The Dynamoes were rewarded for their efforts with 2 goals, both from current top goal scorer Callum Pringle, outsmarting the keeper on both occasions to pass him and slot into an empty net. Unfortunately the Dynamoes form dipped again and Stoke Hill regained control of the game and punished the Dynamoes with an eighth goal.

Dynamoes regrouped and once again played some good football but were unable to improve on the 2 goals they already had. They have shown during every game so far they are capable of troubling the best teams in this league, they just need to do it for longer periods in these games.

The Blues travelled to Exeter as unbeaten league leaders this season to face 3^rd from bottom Cougars with only 1 point from 4 league games and most people expected the Blues to extend their winning streak and impressive goal tally.

It was obvious from the start that this was going to be a thriller and new signing Mustafa Rehemi struck home the first goal for Cougars following a long run down the left hand side just before the 10 minute mark. He very quickly picked up a second and was then joined on the scoreboard by Oakley Worth with a determined run through the defence finishing with a fine shot past the Blues keeper.

At the 15 minute mark the supporters were then treated to a possible candidate for goal of the season when Mase Haines struck a wonderful volley from just outside the penalty box which was still rising when it hit the back of the net.

Despite being 4 - 0 up it certainly wasn't one way traffic and it was due to outstanding defensive work, constant attacking and goal keeping that had so far kept the Blues from scoring.

To their credit Blues refused to give up and on the 20 minute mark scored their first goal of the game following a goal mouth scramble. This was followed soon after with a second scored in a similar manner. Stoke Hill responded to this immediately with Cameron Pow sliding a half clearance past a stretched Blues defence.

Almost on the stroke of half time a well struck long shot from the Blues bounced awkwardly in front of Cougars goalie Jake Hone and slid under his body to bring the score to 5 -3 in favour of the home team.

Whilst the first half was exciting in terms of goal scoring the 2^nd turned out to be a battle of defensive work by both teams and there were close misses at both ends. The missed chances made the 2^nd half a tense time for both sets of supporters which was only increased when late in the game Mustafa Rehemi was pulled down inside the penalty box. When Rehemi stepped up to take the penalty the Cougars supporters thought it was all over but despite being well struck the Blues goalie pulled off a magnificent save to deny him his hat trick.

Rehemi soon made amends for this when shortly afterwards he was able to get a toe to a loose ball in the penalty area and scramble it into the net.

Jake Hone then pulled off two excellent saves in the dying moments to deny the Blues who even at this late stage of the game were still looking to score. The game may have ended 6-3 to the Cougars but due to the spirit of the Brixington Blues it could just have easily gone their way.

As always its goal scorers and keepers who get a special mention but today the whole game was a spectacle of outstanding team work, skill and determination provided by all players who richly deserved the applause they received at the end of the game.

Well done to both teams and welcome back to the Cougars. 

On many occasions last season, Honiton came from 2 goals behind to win games.  On Saturday they battled back from 4-1 down to snatch a draw at home to Crediton.  Never comfortable against a much bigger and direct Crediton side, Honiton, who it must be said played the better football, were often exposed by the free ranging Crediton number 10, who was a constant threat and it was no surprise when he opened the scoring with a well taken goal.  Crediton added a second, before Neil Parris pulled a goal back for the home side.  Shortly before half time, Crediton added a third. 

Honiton needed a quick start to the second half if they were to get back in to the game. Instead, they fell further behind as Crediton extended their lead 1 - 4.  With the game entering the last 10 minutes, the fightback began.  Honiton, switched to 3-4-3, and the addition of an extra striker began to cause difficulties for the visitors defence.  Parris pulled a goal back to make it 2 - 4 and suddenly it was all Honiton.  Play was frequently stopped as Crediton players required treatment and they were forced to replace their goal keeper.  Honiton refused to accept defeat and Ross Broom further reduced the deficit with a well taken goal.  In the dying moments of added time, Broom salvaged a point for the home side, when he slotted home from a corner. 

This was a great game to watch and the Honiton lads should be proud of the commitment and character they showed to battle back and snatch a draw. 

Man of the Match - The "Team" 

The Dynamoes traveled to Central for what should have been one of their easier games of the season with Central only being able to round up 9 players. Any ideas of an easy match were put on hold in the first 20 seconds as that was all Central needed to take the lead leaving the traveling players and parents more than a little shocked.

Dynamoes failed to make use of the extra players and at times looked to be the team with fewer players as Central battled all over the pitch and worked as a team to even up the shortfall in players. Dyanmoes pushed forward looking for an equalizer and a good passing move saw the ball passed to Daniel Libretto on the edge of the box, he took a touch, picked his spot and fired the ball into the top corner to bring the game level. Central still had more of the play but is was Dynamoes who scored next, once again Daniel Libretto finding the back of the net.

Central, not to be outdone broke through the Dynamoes defence to level the game once more. 9 men Central were causing problems for the Dynamoes defence and keeper Curtis had to pull of a string of saves to keep the match level. Central took the lead once more just before half time.

The second half started better for the Dynamoes and they started to create more chances and were rewarded with a spectacular volley from Daniel Libretto (hat trick) finding the net from outside the box. Further pressure lead to an own goal from central to give Dynamoes the lead once more but their on/off the boil performance let them down as Central scored an easy goal once more.

The more the match went on the more Central believed they could win this game and the more the Dynamoes seemed to lose their belief they would get anything from this game. Central took the lead with a few minutes left and even a penalty for the Dynamoes was saved by the Central keeper to give the Dynamoes a defeat in a game which they should never have lost.

The Comets came into this game with a 100% record knowing full well it would be the toughest test of this season so far, and keeping their unbeaten record was going to be a tough call. 

With only moments of the game played, Heavitree's attacking style saw them in the Alpha's box where they had two early penalty shouts denied before Alphington caught them on the break in the 3rd minute with a great passing move that resulted in a fine finish to beat Jack Wheaton.  From the re-start both sides were pressing forward and playing some great football, which was at times interrupted by spells of panic on both sides, and in the 24th minute Jack Challice got a deserved equaliser for the Comets with a great finish, albeit that it was possibly from an offside position that went unnoticed by the Alphington linesman.  The game continued to ebb and flow and two minutes before the half-time whistle Jonathan Kirk put the Comets in front with a great finish that was the result of Kirk and Challice linking well together up front.  The final move of the half saw Jeff Angila sending in a corner that was met by the head of Louis Phillips who couldn't quite get enough purchase, resulting in the ball going wide.

The second half started with both teams upping the pace and either side looked capable of scoring.  It was the Comets who did so first with Jack Challice's second of the game in the 6th minute of the second half, when he expertly lobbed the keeper from some distance out.  Not to be out-done straight from the re-start the Alphas returned the compliment when their forward lobbed Wheaton to make it 2-3.  Ten minutes into the second half a reckless challenge in the penalty area saw the Comets make it 2-4 after the penalty was awarded and coolly put away by Louis Phillips.  The Alphas continued to press in an attempt to get back into the game but with less than 20 minutes to go their breakaway move broke down which resulted in the ball going to the hands of Wheaton, who hammered out a long ball that was flicked on by Christian Ellis to the feet of Jonathan Kirk who fired the ball over the keeper making it 2-5. 

Although three goals behind, Alphington didn't look like a beaten side yet and a couple of great spells of play almost afforded them the opportunity to pull a goal back, but the Comets defence held strong and the last goal of the game fell to Louis Phillips who made it 2-6 with his brace after Billy Smith placed the ball into a crowded penalty area for Louis to slam into the top of the net.

Another great team effort and both sides should be proud of themselves in the way they played in a competitive but fair manner.

Man of the Match:  Jack Challice

Alphington got off to a slow start against Feniton and is was no surprise when they fell behind although it was to an unfortunate own goal. This woke the team up and they were soon level after Dylan Thorne made a mazy run into the box and when his shot was parried by the keeper Sam Jarman was on hand to fire in the rebound. The Alphas soon went ahead after another Thorne run and cross was turned in by Jarman for his second and a 2 -1 half time lead.

The Alphas extended their lead in the 2^nd half when Reece Finnimore found Sam Webber who finished well in the box, but Feniton hit back soon after. A fine Connor Garmendia through ball set Corrie Gloyn away to give the Alphas a 2 goal cushion, but a late Feniton goal made it a nervous last few minutes. Alphington ran out 4-3 winners with Connor Garmendia man of the match.

Having beaten Stoke Hill on the opening day of the season, Honiton had high hopes of progessing to the next round, which they did after a terrific game, which was not decided until the dying minutes of extra time.  Never the strongest of teams from the off, the home side allowed Stoke Hill far too much room which they used to good effect.  Stoke Hills numbe'r 5 was at the heart of much of their best work with his accurate passing and driving runs.  It came as no surprise when the visitors took the lead midway through the first half to lead 0-1 at the break. 

Honiton started the second half in a much more determined mood and slowly fought their way back.  Benjie Cramer equalised, before Lewis Doe put the home side ahead.  Any thoughts the home side had that the game was over, were quickly dispelled, when Stoke Hill struck back to make the score 2 -2 before the final whistle.  The match now moved in to Extra Time and it was not until the final minutes that Honiton struck the winner, when James Branson's long range free kick beat the unfortunate Stoke Hill keeper. 

Both sides can be proud of their contribution to what was an exciting game to watch. 

Man of the Match - William Tyers.

Honiton hit 5 for the second week running against a physical Beacon Knights outfit at Exeter Arena.  Making the most of the huge pitch, Town started brightly, with their trademark passing game well to the fore.  The midfield of Doe, Broom, Blackmore and McCreadie-Taylor enjoyed plenty of possession and it came as no surprise when Benjie Cramer opened the scoring for the visitors. 

Honiton's second goal came after a great passing move, started by William Tyers, his ball found Doe, who slotted the ball between the centre back and full back, for Cramer, who finished well.  Before half time, Ross Broom added a third following up his initial shot which had hit the crossbar. 

Knights, rallied at the start of the second half and pulled a goal back, however, with no substitutes to call on it was doubtful they would last the pace.  Honiton kept pressing forward and it was only a matter of time before they extended their lead, Harry Jobson finishing from a tight angle. 

The home side scored a second goal to set up a tense final few minutes.  The visitors were certainly in no mood to throw their lead away and raced straight back for Owen McCreadie-Taylor to score Honiton's fifth.

Comets first home game of the competitive season saw them fair well against a Stoke Hill team who's season had started with mixed fortunes.  The opening few minutes of the game saw both teams have chances to open the scoring on what will probably be the biggest pitch any of the lads will play on this season.

It was in the 5^th minute that the Comets took the lead after a great cross from Jeff Angila fell to the feet of William Gregory who stepped around the keeper before slotting home a cool finish to make it 1 - 0.  The Comets kept the tempo high and were making lots of chances but couldn't find the finish needed to extend the lead further. The next 20 minutes or so saw both sides come close and if it had not been for the great tracking back of Dan Foster and a timely intervention by Ed McKenna and a couple great stops by Jack Wheaton in goal, Stoke Hill would have equalised.  In the last minute of the first half Jack Challice doubled the lead with a great long range strike leaving the keeper stranded as it sailed over his head. H-T 2 - 0

Stoke Hill came out all guns blazing in the second half and with only a two goal cushion it was important for the Comets not to let them get back in the game, the Comets absorbed the pressure well for the opening 8 minutes or so before a mazy little run by Jonathan Kirk saw him navigate his way between 3 defenders before unleashing a power strike that hit the top corner to make it 3 - 0, moments later Kirk could have had his second of the game, but fired wide with a snap shot after not realising he had plenty of time to walk the ball in.

For the 1^st time this season the Comets were undone at the back allowing Stoke Hill to pull a goal back with a well taken finish. The 3 goal lead was restored moments later when Louis Phillips tricked the 1^st of two defenders with his footwork, before leaping over the challenge of the second one to fire the fire into the top corner making it 4 - 1, the game was now really open and the heat of the day was showing in some tired legs when Stoke Hill managed to pull back another making it 4 - 2. This only spurred the Comets on further as they finished the game strongly with another brilliant spell of passing from midfield that saw Phillips fire in another great goal, bending it around the keeper to make it 5 -2.

A well earned win for the Comets to keep them flying in 2^nd place.

MOTM - Louis Phillips

For the 2^nd game running Alphington got off to the perfect start when Dylan Thorne netted in the 1^st minute after racing through one on one with the keeper and finishing well.

Crediton responded well and were soon ahead, but the Alphas drew level before half time when Corrie Gloyn scored his first of the season.

The second half was very end to end with both teams attacking and Crediton once again took the lead before Gloyn scored his second to draw the Alphas level again.

With 5 minutes to go both teams would have settled for a point, but then man of the match Sam Jarman popped up at the far post to steer a free kick past the keeper and put Alphington ahead again.

This lead only lasted a couple of minutes before Crediton equalised again, but with one minute to go Sam Webber netted the winner and Alphington ran out 5 - 4 winners.

This was an excellent game of football played in good spirit by both teams.

After last weeks defeat by Brixington Blues, Honiton were in determined mood against a Countess Wear side, showing a number of changes since last season. 

The home side started brightly and enjoyed large periods of possession ( it was 27 minutes, before Todd Beanlands in the Town goal touched the ball) and passed the ball with speed and accuracy. A combination of poor finishing and stout defending kept Honiton out, until a poor clearance was punished by Kyle Blackmore. 

Town upped the pace and Benjie Cramer added a second just before half time.  After the break and with the visitors tiring, Honiton sought to put the result beyond doubt. 

Cramer added his second, before Harry Jobson capped a fine debut performance by cooly rounding the keeper and slotting home Towns forth.  Neil Parris opened his account for the season, with a great strike near the end.  

The game was played in a fine spirit and both teams should be congratulated for their contribution.

Honiton took control of the first part of this game having large amounts of possession with fluent passing and creative attacking play.

The Dynamoe's defence was equal to what ever Honiton threw at them, keeping them restricted to shooting from the edge of the box, however it was a gift from the Dynamoe's that gave Honiton the lead. A ball across the box from the dynamoe's keeper was intercepted by the Honiton forward and he had an empty net to fire into.

It was only a few minutes before Honiton was 2 up after more relentless attacking saw Honiton find the back of the net again. About half way through the half the Dynamoe's found their feet and their swift passing game began to emerge, when they attacked the Honiton defence looked incapable of holding the Dynamoe's off but try as they could, the Dynamoe's just couldn't find the final touch, the best move of the first half saw the ball passed through to Connor Fewings but his dipping shot wasn't quite high enough to beat the keeper.

Half time came too soon for the Dynamoe's as they were having good possession and the start of the second half saw Honiton once again play some good football. The Dynamoe's responded lead by my man of the match Corey Jones who made several bursting runs from the back, slipping past one player after another as if they weren't even there.

The rest of the team follow suit and raised their game. Both teams were looking good but it was Honiton who scored the vital next goal, taking a bit of wind out of the sails of the Dynamoe's and as their players started to tire (The Dynamoe's had only 11 players for this match) Honiton with their larger squad made full use of fresh players throughout the match and scored 2 more goals late on to give them the win.

The Comets continued their great start to the season with another clean sheet and a 4-0 away win against a very good Pinhoe team.  The opening moments of the game saw the ball go from end to end with both sides trying to find an opening.  Five minutes in Elliott  Murch managed to pull the ball back from the deadball line to fire it into the penalty area.  The resulting shot from the Heavitree forward was skyed over the bar.  The Comets continued to pile on the pressure with some great build-up play and Dan Foster took charge and controlled the midfield with a level of ability and commitment that was far beyond his years.  It felt it was only a matter of time before the Comets would score, and in the 16th minute a passionate display of determination from Billy who got in amongst the defenders in the penalty area, afforded him the opportunity to set William Gregory up, knocking the ball in to make it 1-0.

Moments later Jonathan Kirk was unlucky not to extend the Comets' lead after his strike from the edge of the penalty area went wide of the upright.  Around the 25 minute mark Gregory's determination was rewarded again when a well taken corner kick into the danger area saw him force the ball over the line, leaving the keeper stunned.  The first half ended with Comets 2-0 up and looking very composed and comfortable with their football.

As would be expected, the second half started with Pinhoe trying hard to get back into the game but the Comets' backline stopped all advances from the Pinhoe forwards.  It took until the 20th minute of the second half before the next goal came and it was again Gregory's involvement that was influential in forcing the Pinhoe keeper to make a great save, that he could only parry out into the path of Jonathan Kirk, whose predatory nature saw him slam the ball into the back of the net to make it 3-0.

Five minutes late another fine bit of football from the Comets saw them go 4-0 up.  From defence the ball was played out for Ajay to run it through midfield before passing it to Jonathan Kirk, who battled his way through the back line retaining the ball before chipping it over the keeper.  The dying moments of the game saw Dan Foster come close to getting what would have been a well deserved goal, but his strike from the edge of the area skimmed over the crossbar.

Another well deserved victory for the Comets but great credit should also be given to the Pinhoe boys, management and parents for their sporting attitude and determination to play right up to the final whistle.

Comets Man of the Match: Dan Foster

This was always going to be a tough assignment for the Honiton boys, against a side who won their opening fixture 24-0!  Honiton's cause was made all the more difficult, as illness meant they travelled with only 11 players. 

Todd Beanlands stepped in to take over in goal and had it not been for some good saves the score line could have been doubled.  The first 25 minutes were even, although it must be said the home side created the better of the chances.  Honiton, slipped behind just before half time, after some slack defending allowed Brixington to open their account. 

Half time 1-0.   With no substitutes to call on, the visitors were always going to struggle and as the second half wore on gaps began to appear, which Brixington were quick to exploit. Goals 2,3 and 4 followed in quick succession, as the Honiton boys tired towards the end. 

In the end Honiton were beaten by an excellent side, one who will be there or there about's come the end of the season.  To Honiton's credit, they battled throughout and never allowed their heads to drop.  They will be a better team for this experience.

Both teams struggled to take control of this game but it was the Dynamoe's who created most of the early chances. On another day they would have been several up in the first few minuets as Callum Pringle was having the better of the Brixington defence on the right wing easily passing the defender at every opportunity.

However chance after chance went by without the dynamoe's managing to score. Brixington started to create some chances of their own to show they didn't come here make it easy for the Dynamoe's and the dynamoe's had to relay on their Keeper Curtis to keep the score level on more than one occasion.

Dynamoe's finally managed to find the back of the net and it came from Callum after yet another break down the right. Brixington responded with yet more attacking play and were rewarded several minuets later as the Dynamoe's defence was caught napping. Both teams were only having small amounts of possession but it was Brandon for the Dynamoe's who took his chance to calmly fire past the keeper to give the Dynamoe's a just deserved lead going into half time.

The second half continued much like the first but Brixington upped their game once more and were taking advantage of a below average (by dynamoe's matches last year) performance by the Dynamoe's. They drew level as the Dynamoe's failed to clear the ball. They continued their momentum and took the lead a after a great finish by the Brixington forward. The dynamoe's dug deep and clawed their way back into the game and it was Brandon who equalized after turning away from his marker and keeping his cool, picked his spot and gave the keeper no chance.

This brought some fire back to the Dynamoe's and 2 minuets later Callum turned just inside the edge of the box to fire an unstoppable volley past the outstretched Brixington keeper. It looked like the Dynamoe's would hold on for their first win of the season but a very determined Brixington never gave up and with only a few minuets left leveled the game once more.

Both teams fought to the end and on reflection for any team to lose today would have been harsh. Both teams should be pleased with a draw in the end.

United and Dynamoes served up an eight goal thriller in this very even and sporting encounter. Both sides created early chances before Dynamoes took the lead with a good shot from inside the box.

United continued to press forward and Joe Walker scored a deserved equaliser with a strong run and cross come shot into the top corner. With Luke Bland in commanding form in defence United grew in confidence. Bailey Gray then created an opening, poking his shot just wide of the post. It was Dynamoes who regained the lead before half time when a shot bravely parried by United keeper Lewis Miller fell to another Dynamoes forward who slotted home from close range.

With both sides playing great football the game flowed from end to end. United kept their heads up and a dangerous run from flying winger Jason Mann almost resulted in a United equaliser. United did equalise early in the second half when a Robert Croal throw in was volleyed spectacularly into the top corner by Sam Skinner. United then took the lead after a great corner by Joe Walker was headed in at the near post by George Mears.

Dynamoes continued to cause United problems at the back and they equalised with another well worked goal. Keenan Paver battled well in defence and one of his surging runs almost put Skinner through on goal. Jamie Waller then cut out a dangerous Dynamoes attack with some good defensive play as Dynamoes pressed forward in search of the lead.

A great shot into the top corner appeared to give Dynamoes the winning goal. But courageous United refused to give up and a great run by Robert Croal down the right wing saw him battle past 3 defenders before striking a shot into the net at the near post.

Both sides pressed for the winner but a draw was a fair result as the teams produced a match which was a credit to both clubs.

Honiton kicked off the new season with victory over Stoke Hill Cougars at Mountbatten Park.  This is the teams first experience of 11 a side football on a full size pitch and in most respects they coped well. 

The home side started brightly and created a number of chances, before they fell behind to a break away goal from the visitors.  Undeterred, Honiton continued to press forward and it was from a corner that Owen McCreadie-Taylor rose to head home the equaliser. 

The same player added his second, when he found himself in space on the left and cooly finished at the far post.  Before half time, Stoke Hill equalised, direct from a free kick.   The home side raised their game after half time and began to enjoy large periods of possession and it was no surprise when Todd Beanlands latched on to a through ball and finished smartly. 

Ben Facey scored his first and Honiton's forth with a well struck shot and before the end Benjie Cramer added a fifth.  Whilst not among the scorers,

Towns Man of the Match went to Ross Broom, for his energy and all round contribution.   

Glorious sunshine and a fantastic playing surface along with two teams both eager to play good passing football, meant this was hopefully going to be a great opening game to the 09/10 season for both sides and I don't think anybody could say they were disappointed.

The opening 10 minutes of the game saw both sides adjusting to the full size pitch and with nothing much between the two sides in the opening exchanges Crediton came close to opening the scoring with a well placed shot in the 7^th minute that was superbly held by Jack Wheaton the Comets' goalie.  Just before the 15 minute mark the deadlock was broken when Jonathan Kirk went on a mazy run from midfield after being provided the ball by Dan Foster who ran it out from defence.  Kirk's run saw him go from midfield, slicing through the Crediton defence to be met by the onrushing goal-keeper who he coolly side-stepped to slot the ball into the corner of the net. 

The Comets continued to play some great passing football but were forced at times to defend deep and Jeff Angila on several occasions worked well keeping the backline in check to support Wheaton in goal.  Kirk was almost in again on the half-hour mark and was only denied by some great goalkeeping from the Crediton keeper.  With only moments of the first half remaining, Crediton came on strong and the thunderous shot from Paul Barnes forced Wheaton to make the first of many great saves.  The Comets rode their luck and can think themselves fortunate to hold on to their 1-0 lead, which was how the first half ended. 

The second half began with Crediton trying to force the issue and the Comets continuing to have defend and absorb the early pressure that Crediton were applying.  With a little over 5 minutes of the second half played, the Comets broke out of their own half and began to get their passing game back together, which resulted in the Crediton defence giving away a throw-in which was sent over the back line by Elliott Murch and Kirk read the ball well as he ran through the back line and fired into goal to make it 2-0. 

The game from this point ebbed and flowed from one end to the other and the cobwebs were well and truly dusted off from both sides.  With around 20 minutes of the second half played Wheaton was again forced to make a tremendous save to prevent Crediton getting on the score sheet.  It seemed that every time Crediton forged an attack, the Comets wanted to go one better, and with 23 minutes of the second half on the clock Kirk got his hat-trick after Jack Challice provided the ball when he came out the winner in a strong physical stage of the play.  The finished that Kirk produced was probably the finest in the game, after firing right across the angles giving the keeper no chance.  

With 8 minutes of the game remaining, Kirk was brought down by the keeper and the Comets were awarded a penalty.  Christian Ellis stepped up to take the penalty and went for power with his strike, which came off the bar denying the Comets their fourth goal. 

The game became a little scrappy in the closing moments but the score remained 3-0 to the Comets.  A great team effort from the Comets and unquestionably man of the match went to Jonathan Kirk. 

Alphington 7 - 3 Countess Wear
Dynamoe's Up until the last 10 minutes of this match both teams were very evenly matched, Alphington took the lead after a few mins but the Dynamoe's leveled a few mins later after Ryan Long tucked the ball away at the far post. Both teams attacked and defended well but it was the Dynamoe's who struck next after a blistering shot from Callum Pringle (from around 20 yards) shot into the top corner.

Alphington leveled shortly after the break but the Dynamoe's once again took the lead, again through Callum Pringle. With both teams seeming to cancel each other out it remained this score for a while. However Alphington got the next goal once again leveling the match. with less than 10 mins to go.

The Dynamoe's made a few mistakes which lead to arun of goals from Alphington. Dynamoe's will feel disappointed with the result but very pleased with 95% of thier football today. They bounced back from a couple of hammerings pre-season to show some of the form that earned them second spot in the league last season. Thanks also to Alphington who played their part in a very enjoyable game of football.

Following the early removal of Stoke Hill's home ground goal posts, courtesy of the City Council, we had two weeks of uncertainty as to where the League decider between Stoke Hill Spurs and Tiverton Town U12'S was to take place. It was finally arranged to be played on a neutral ground at Madglake, Uffculme.  The consensus being that the league shouldn't be decided on a technicality.  

Stoke got off to a flying start and after only 5 minutes Tarja Jones put the ball in the back of Tivvy's net.  The Ref first awarded the goal and then immediately disallowed it after a very late consultation with his linesman. Unperturbed Stoke Hill didn't let this early distraction cloud their focus as they continued to overwhelm Tiverton's defences. Ten minutes later Ethan Chalk delivered a blinding strike finding the back of the net; no doubt about this one.  This was to set the pace of Stoke Hill's onslaught.  Tiverton regrouped and gained a little more possession and 25 minutes in, and out of the blue, the dominance of Stoke Hill's midfield was showing its true effect when Jordan Major delivered a thunder bolt, and probably the goal of the season, dealing a blow to Tiverton's title ambitions.  During the first half Tiverton only managed to mount a handful of attacks before being neutralised and repelled by Staddon, Burge, Saunders and Balkwell.  Unlike Stoke's defeat in the semi's of the cup, Tiverton soon realised they were up against a full strength Stoke Hill side.

The second half came and it was now a test of mental strength as much as physical and skilful dominance when Stoke's first foray saw some slick interplay between Ryan Wallis Tarja Jones and James Chudleigh as they danced around the Tivvy defence supplying the ball to Ethan Chalk who span striking a half volley concluding his brace. 3-0 down and, to Tiverton's credit, they picked themselves up and after adjusting to some tactical changes they desperately pushed to try and get back in the game which earned them a late consolation goal. 

After a very quiet first half Jake Tillett, Stoke's keeper, was called into action a couple of times; once pulling off a fantastic save.  Full credit to Jake who normally plays up front but has stepped in as goalkeeper all season while we are still looking to appoint a permanent keeper.  During this action packed match Stoke Hill had plenty of near misses hitting the post twice and scoring a further two goals which were disallowed. The game finished 3-1, Stoke Hill emerging the worthy victors. This concluded back to back league wins against Tiverton and crowning Stoke Hill Spurs the 2008/2009 League champions.

A big Thank you s to all the supporters and well done to the whole squad for a fantastic season. Special thanks to Nick Miles and Co. (Culm United) for their hospitality and providing the excellent facilities and a perfect playing surface befitting a League title decider.

After being re-arranged for the fourth time, the game between Tivvy and Stoke Hill eventually went ahead and a big thanks must go out to Nick Miles and Co at Culm United for a lovely playing surface and the hospitality.  Unfortunately for Tiverton with this fixture having to be played today were without one of their key defenders Jack Dickson who was sorely missed and which meant sacrificing other positions, which worked in Stoke Hills favour on the day, without taking anything away from Stoke Hilll who deserved the result with a very physical performance.  Although Tivvy dominated the last meeting with some excellent football, both teams play different  styles of football and with Tiverton not playing their best passing football today allowed Stoke Hill to take advantage giving away an early 2 goal lead with some soft unforced errors. 

Although Tivvy upped their tempo in the second half and were playing the better football Stoke Hill scored their 3^rd goal just after the whistle with a fine strike, and with Tivvy trying to get back into the game managed to grab a goal back with a left footed shot from Jack Rainey.  Euan Howells, Thomas Parkins and Matt Pengelly all came close to scoring and Scott Billings with a thunderous left foot drive forcing the Stoke Hill keeper to pull off an excellent save but it was never going to be for Tiverton today. 

Congratulations to Stoke Hill but the Tivvy boys can hold their heads up high for an excellent season by winning the long awaited league cup for the first time and coming runners up in the league this year.  Well done boys.

Thanks to all the parents this year for all your support throughout the season and I'm sure you will all agree that this has been one of our most successful seasons with some fine footballing displays throughout the whole team. 

Tiverton U12's worked hard to get to the final this year playing some excellent football throughout the earlier rounds and got there just rewards with an emphatic win and a well accomplished all round team performance against the runaway leaders of league 2 Whipton Youth.  Tivvy were up for this game right from the start and were having a lot of possession within Whipton's half creating a lot of chances with Jack Rainey hitting the post after 5 minutes and Matthew Pengelly forcing the keeper to pull off a great save and Scott McMillan and Will Pinnick also going close with good goalscoring opportunities. 



The breakthrough came a couple minutes before the break with Will Pinnick breaking the deadlock to send Tivvy on there way.  Early into the second half Tivvy continued where they left off and within 2 minutes Scott McMillan was slipped in to give Tivvy a 2-0 lead, although Whipton were working hard throughout the game they couldn't find a way through the strong defence of Jack Dickson ,Ollie Morgan and Ross Holmes  and good passing from Thomas Parkins, Will Pinnick, and Scott Billings who worked the ball well in midfield. 

Tivvy were always on the attack and further goals followed with a well earned hatrick from JacA Rainey and 1 a piece from Euan Howells, Thomas Parkins and Josh Bruce to round off the rout 8-0 also unlucky not be get on the score sheet was Reece Kingdom, also playing there part were goalkeepers Ben Hearn and Ryan Clarke.  Well done to all the boys in winning the cup this year each and everyone of you deserve it.

Thanks to Whipton Youth Managers, Players and Supporters for there good sportsmanship on the day and thanks for the bubbly it was very much appreciated.

This winner takes all game had everything and is a real tribute not only to the teams involved but also to the league they play in.

Sidbury Utd needed a point to secure their place in the top division, on the other hand Culm Utd needed a win or they would go down. So it was always going to be a tense and nerve racking morning. Both teams started brightly and were knocking the ball around well but it was the defenders who had the better of the early exchanges.

Kieran Murphy, Ben Logan, Daniel Greenland and Connor Long held firm and were confident at the back. Clear cut chances were few and far between. Harry Wright was carry a groin strain so Todd Lewendon replaced him and made an instant impact when he broke the deadlock minutes before half time. The second half had everything, excitement, good football, controversy, mistakes, and plenty of goals.

Culm equalised very early into the half, which seemed to make them grow in belief. Sidbury seemed to panic and within minutes it was 1-2 when Culm took the lead. Sidbury steadied themselves and went in search of an equaliser. Midfielders George Hathaway and Billy Reed went close before Jack Murrell latched onto a cross and beat the keeper to make it 2-2. Virtually straight from the kick off Culm retook the lead when their player took full advantage of a mistake, and scored. Now facing relegation themselves Sidbury rallied and threw everything at Culm in search of an equaliser.

With just 6 mins remaining Jack Murrell was bought down in the area and a penalty awarded. Aaron Pearse with the whole world on his shoulders, bravely stepped forward and showed great character when his low shot found the corner of the net 3-3. Two minutes later it was 4-3 when Culm got hit on the break from a Sidbury counter and Todd Lewendon, back to his best, kept his cool and beat the keeper.

Sidbury keeper Daryl Young was immense throughout this game, whilst Scott Redman and Toby Bouganeau both played their part, and it was great to see Cody Northcott back in a Sidbury shirt after his injury lay off. George Harwood again proved what an asset he is, reliable and solid. A very emotional day for both teams, and an extremely entertaining game of football. Lastly I would like to add our best wishes to Culm Utd, who in our opinion are a Div 1 side and the league will be weaker without them.

Surely something the League could consider is a play-off system between 3rd bottom Div 1 and 3rd top Div 2. That way the Division will remain at it's strongest.

 The match that would decide the 3rd relegation position was a fitting way to end the season, with both sides giving so much commitment and energy. Culm needed to win and Sidbury just had to avoid defeat.

The first half was high energy with few clear cut chances until Sidbury took the lead after 28' from close range. Culm had worked one or two openings but found a stubborn home defence and goalkeeper. Into the second half and Culm were level withn 2'. Rory Thomas broke down the left into the Sidbury half and played a fine pass into Ross Oaten's stride whose pass behind the Sidbury defence was met by Timmy Miles who beat a defender and the goalkeeper to the ball to prod it home. This fired Culm up and suddenly they were surging forwards and having come close just before, Oaten scored a second after fine work from Daniel Hayfield.

But having been close to doing so a minute before, Sidbury grabbed an equaliser after 42', with a shot that hit the bar and boucned over the line. Before they could settle, though, Oaten wriggled free inside the box and slotted the ball low to the 'keepers right, advantage Culm @ 2-3. The play ebbed and flowed and the players' determination showed in some very competitive challenges, with some excellent defensive work and good goalkeeping from both teams. However, there was one more twist to the game and it came within the last 6' when the referee gave a controversial penalty to Sidbury for a trip in the box.

Despite getting a touch to the low drive, Culm's 'keeper could not prevent it crossing the line, for 3-3. But Culm needed to win and pressed forwards in search of another goal but it was Sidbury who clinched the win with a good finish, after Todd Lenwendon drew the 'keeper.

Culm came close again and while a draw may have been a fair outcome, it wasn't to be. A cracking game with a very emotional ending for the players of both teams.

Well played to Sidbury but for Culm well played today to Macaulay Broome, Harry Martin, Ashley Grant, Cameron Wright, Rory Thomas, Will Gorman, Ben Tucker and Josh Hart. It's been a very competitive division played in good spirit throughout. The football has improved as the players have learned to adapt to 11-a-side.

 An entertaining game between two teams with ambitions at either end of the table on a good surface ended with the points going to the visitors. What made it more interesting was that both sides were without their first choice goalkeepers although the stand-ins did very well.

After Stoke pressed early on, Culm got into the match and having created their first chance, then found themselves a goal down after a sweet move that ended with a precision finish into the far corner on 12'. Stoke went close again but then Culm moved into a purple patch that saw them so close to a deserved equaliser, for the remainder of the half.

Ross Oaten saw his shot cleared off the line, while Will Gorman also went close and just before the break, Oaten saw another good effort well saved by the 'keeper. After the break, Stoke upped the tempo and certainly had Culm on the back foot. Having missed a relatively simple chance, Culm then went to the other end and forced the 'keeper into a desparate save at the foot of his near post.

But then, having just hit the post, Stoke took the lead with a good finish from a cross and minutes later extended their advantage from close range, on 40'. Culm didn't buckle though and battled away. Oaten hit the outside of a post with a terrific shot towards the end but their consolation goal came with 4' to go.

Oaten it was who pinged a great pass from left central midfield into the path of Ashley Grant who moved in behind the defence from the right and completely wrong-footed the 'keeper with a clean low strike to the near post. A good competitive game well masrshalled by Will Thornton, again.

Saints secured their Division 1 future in this match thanks to an excellent hardworking team performance.

In a game played in a good spirit by both sets of players, Saints took the lead after 6 minutes when Toby Parker lobbed home his 28th goal of the season, however Culm were soon on level terms with a finish from an accute angle.

With the sides going in all square at the break, Saints needed to up the tempo in the second half and did so with Cory Eaton latching onto a fine through ball from Josh Hill to fire home from 15 yards after 48 minutes. Culm equalised once again with a tremendous strike from outside the box and with time running out a draw looked on the cards. However with Saints increasingly trying their luck from distance, a long range effort from inside his own half from James Eginton bounced  over the Culm keeper and into the net.

Mention must also be made of the excellent performances of Dan Tucker, Jamie Mackenzie and Martin Hodge.

Best of luck to Culm for the rest of the season, as always they played football they can be proud of.  

 Culm's recent good form in their fight against relegation came to an end at Crediton, for whom the three points meant they can look forward to division 1 football next term.

Crediton started the better and took the lead after 8'. But Culm were level within 4', when Ross Oaten fired in from an acute angle on the right. Crediton were at their most dangerous from set-plays while Culm played well on the break, Oaten and Daniel Hayfield going close. Into the second half, the hosts took the lead when a free ball 15 yards out was drilled home but Ashley Grant fired in a terrific speculative effort to level the scores.

Crediton enjoyed the better second-half chances as Culm sweltered in the morning heat. Then the winner, a loose ball was hit high and goalwards into the Culm box - the bounce looped agonisingly over Harry Martin's despairing outstretched arm. Culm had a decent shout for a penalty late on but it was not to be. Well played to Cameron Wright, Sam Stockman, Ben Tucker and Josh Hart. James Eginton was very sound for Crediton. Finally - a word about the pitch quality.

Having struggled for so long during the season against the elements, it was disappointing to be asked to play on grass that hadn't been cut for over 2 weeks and without any pitch markings.

The April showers earlier in the day made made for an excellent surface and an enthralling contest. It took St Martins merely 5' to take the lead at which point Culm woke up and started to work for some possession. Ben Tucker epitomised the response and was arguably Man-of-the-Match, so solid was he in central defence.

The coaches will swear that having never been a confident header of the ball, tonight, he moved forwards with several returns from goal kicks and set-pieces. Culm's equaliser came from a set-piece - a corner was semi-cleared and Sam Stockman raced in and hit a 30 yard screamer which gave the Saint Martin 'keeper no chance, after 19'. Three minutes later and Ros Oaten combined with Ashley Grant, whose cross reached the far post where Daniel Hayfield scored.

Minutes before the break, St Martins were level when Culm failed to clear a bouncing ball and the chance was despatched into the corner. Into the second period, Culm moved up a gear for the first 10' and scored twice. The pace, clever lay-offs and general energy of Josh Crook helped Oaten who became a real threat everytime he went forwards.

He will have more successful goalscoring days, but his presence created two goals.Hayfield got the first after 37' and the second was an unfortunate own-goal when a St Martins defender tried to intercept a low cross from Crook, intended for Oaten. The game settled for a while and although Culm had chances, one goal from St Martins might change the game. Sure enough, the visitors got a third, from another failed clearance.

The last 7 minutes was high entertainment. Chances were spurned at both ends and when one last effort was cleared at the far post under pressure from two Saints players, the final whistle was blown!

Excellent performances from Cameron Wright, Macaulay Broome, Rory Thomas, Michael Winter, Will Gorman and Harry Martin. Referee, Will Thornton did well again.

This was an entertaining game between two reasonably matched teams on as good a playing surface as either of the coaches could have hoped for.

Culm started brightly and could even have gone ahead after 15 seconds but Heavitree closed down well. Gradually the players settled down and the visitors started to enjoy some good possession, as Culm almost invited attacks. Heavitree's reward, after 17', was a well-taken goal - their striker having slipped past the defence to score from a 1v1 with the Culm 'keeper. But 2' later Ross Oaten levelled the score from a similar situation with the through ball coming from Daniel Hayfield. Hayfield then put Culm ahead after 23' as passes finally started coming together.

Into the second half and Culm started brightly and then extended their lead when a wonderfully clipped Hayfield free kick was met on the angle by Macaualay Broome for 3-1. Ross Oaten grabbed a second with more good work in the attacking third before Heavitree reduced the deficit, with 7' minutes to go, with a well struck shot.

The final minutes were a little tense but the match was played in good spirit throughout and well refereed by Will Thornton.

Crediton Saints 2 Tiverton Town 3
 
Saints gave a good account of themselves against the league leaders and were unlucky not to force a draw in the closing minutes. 

After early Tiverton pressure , Saints struck the bar after 19 minutes when a shot from Josh Hill was flicked onto the woodwork by Toby Parker. Tiverton then took a 2 goal lead before Saints struck back. James Eginton hit a magnificent freekick from just inside the Tiverton half high into the Tiverton net to much applause from the Saints supporters. A further goal from Tiverton  came on the stroke of halftime.An injury to Saints keeper Liam Parish resulted in midfielder Jamie Mackenzie going in goal for the second period.

In the second half Tiverton had several opportunities to extend their lead but an inspired performance by Jamie Mackenzie together with  excellent defending resulted in a second half clean sheet. In stoppage time Toby Parker was brought down in the  Tiverton penalty box , and James Eginton fired home the resulting spot kick. Despite Saints pressure in the closing minutes, Tiverton emerged victorious. Well done to both sides for a keenly fought match.
 
Lympstone Eagles 1 Crediton Saints 2
 
On a hard bumpy pitch and a strong wind throughout, both sides did remarkably well to serve up an entertaining match.

The early chances fell the way of Lympstone and they took the lead following a free kick after 16 minutes. Sam Ward was unlucky not to equalise minutes later when his snapshot hit the post. Lympstone were then awarded a controversial penalty , which was duly placed wide. Saints then had several opportunities to draw level before the equaliser eventually came on the stroke of halftime. A Sam Ward corner was flicked on by Toby Parker and Kieran Vinnicombe fired home from 6 yards.

Saints took the lead  5 minutes after halftime when another Sam Ward corner was flicked on by James Eginton and Josh Hill headed home his first goal of the season. At this point Saints had several good opportunities to put the game beyond doubt but failed to do so. In the closing minutes Lympstone came close to an equaliser but Saints held firm for a much needed victory.

The whole team played well with Dan Tucker, Jamie Mackenzie  and Cory Eaton along with those previously mentioned doing particularly well.

22^nd April 2009 

Culm Utd U12's 0 Okehampton Argyle U12's 3
 
With their heads held high after their success last weekend at Newton St Cyres having qualifyed for the plate final Okehampton travelled to Culm for an evening fixture in which both teams were looking for a win.  It was a tight game to begin with and both sides were quick to closed each other down.
Okehampton opened the scoring when they made an advance up the pitch and the ball was crossed to Daniel Fogerty who took a shot at goal.  Within a few minutes, Okehampton added to the score sheet when Ben Bickle made a great cross to Ross Voaden who shot into the back of the net.
Some good play by both teams followed and Jamie Mallet and Ross both had shots that went over the crossbar.  Culm replied with an attack up front and Aaron Dearing made a great save to keep a clean sheet. 
Okehampton's confidence grew and they played some great football with the whole team passing the ball and dominating the play.
Okehampton had a great team effort to set up the final goal which Ross shot high in to the back of the net.  With the final score at 3-0, Okehampton came away with a deserved win, having shown some disciplined and skilful play that made an entertaining game to watch. 
Men of the Match were Ben Bickle and Ben Barkwill

 26^th April 2009 

Okehampton entertained top of the table Tiverton today in what was a closely fought match.

Okehampton, as they are prone, started slowly taking a while to settle.  Tiverton quickly took advantage and opened the scoring when one of their players made a good run outpacing the home team's defenders and shooting past the keeper.

Both teams put on a good display of football and Argyle pressured the Tiverton goal but were unable to get past their solid defenders.

The rest of the game carried on in the same vein with chances for both teams but excellent performances by both team's defenders ensured no further goals were added with the fulltime score finishing at 1 - 0.

Crediton Youth  2  v  3  Tiverton Town

Although Tiverton were relatively comfortable throughout this game going 2-0 up through 2 well executed goals by Matt Pengelly, Crediton were awarded a soft free kick right on the edge of the box which was hit high into the net leaving goalkeeper Ryan Clarke no chance to make it 2-1 before the break. 

Tivvy kept working hard and put themselves 3-1 up through Jack Rainey, a lot more goals should have followed and the game became more and more frustrating towards the end, Tivvy were looking more comfortable even though Crediton had a few chances of their own and were awarded a controversial penalty right at the end which brought the score back to 3-2 in which should have been a comfortable victory turned out to be a very tense last couple of minutes.  Strong performances from Scott McMillan, Thomas Parkins, Matthew Pengelly and Josh Bruce.

Okehampton Argyle  0  v  1  Tiverton Town

Travelling away to Okehampton was always going to be a tough test for Tiverton knowing Okehampton are equally a very good footballing side which on the day was there to be seen.  Tivvy started the game very brightly and were passing and moving the ball into Okehampton's half very well and after 10 minutes a good through ball from Ross Holmes just inside the hosts half was anticipated by Jack Rainey with an excellent run down the righthand side getting in behind the defence to shoot across goal to put Tivvy 1-0 up.

Tiverton continued to press to further their lead with Matt Pengelly and Scott McMillan going close and a good long range effort from Lewis Fraser.  The last 15 minutes of the first half Okehampton were trying to get back in the game and were spending more time playing some good football in Tivvys half but with the defence of Ollie Morgan, Jack Dickson and Ross Holmes standing strong throughout the half.  In the second half Tivvy were more and more in Okehamptons half pressurising their backline whenever they could with Scott McMillan hitting the upright and Josh Bruce and Thomas Parkins also going very close but Tivvy always had to be on their guard with the no nonsense Thomas Parkins putting in some excellent challenges with Will Pinnick and Scott Billings also working hard limiting Okehampton to a few breakaway chances. 

Tivvy worked hard right to the end from the defence to the forward line with strong performances from Ollie Morgan, Thomas Parkins, Scott McMillan, Will Pinnick, Scott Billings, Jack Rainey, Ross Holmes, Jack Dickson and also playing well in this good all round solid team performance Ryan Clarke and Reece Kingdom.

Full credit goes to both sets of players and the referee for a well contested game.

Tivvy U12's cruised their way through to the final with a comfortable 4-0 win. 

The game started off fairly even from both sides for the first 15 minutes but as the half progressed Tivvy were getting more and more on top and were keeping the ball in Stoke Hills half playing some excellent football keeping the ball in the visitors half and it was a matter of time before Tivvy scored their first goal with some neat exchanges of passes from Thomas Parkins, Will Pinnick and Scott Billings in the middle of midfield to Jack Rainey who set the ball down the left hand side for Euan Howells to run onto to shoot and score to send Tivvy on their way, further chances came for Tivvy who can count themselves unlucky not to further their lead with good attacking football. 

In the second half Tivvy continued where they left off passing and moving the ball around well all over the pitch causing Stoke Hill problems at the back and forcing a corner early in the second half and with an excellent flighted ball into the box from Jack Rainey which was equally met with a cracking header from hard working Scott McMillan put the yellows 2-0 up, by this time Tivvy were dominating possession and were looking very comfortable on the ball and it was a matter of time before the 3^rd goal came with a strong run from Jack Rainey to get in behind Stoke Hills defence and score to kill off any chance of a come back from the visitors.  Many chances went begging and Matthew Pengelly, Scott Billings and Thomas Parkins were unlucky not to be on the score sheet but further pressure paid off with a strike from Jack Rainey coming back out for Euan Howells to score another well deserved goal to round off the rout. 

Excellent defending and commanding performances from the defence of Jack Dickson, Ollie Morgan and Ross Holmes leaving very little for Ryan Clarke to do between the sticks. 

Tremedous work rate and effort from all the boys who thoroughly deserve to reach the final - well done.

Team: Ryan Clarke, Ben Hearn, Jack Dickson, Ollie Morgan, Ross Holmes, Thomas Parkins, William Pinnick, Scott Billings, Scott McMillan, Euan Howells, Matthew Pengelly, Jack Rainey, Charles Hunter, Reece Kingdom and Josh Bruce.

Sidbury United had to reshuffle their back four for the visit of St Martins, Kieran Murphy dropped into the left back position, with Man of the Match Connor Long moving into the centre half role along side Aaron Pearse and with Ben Logan on the right of the four, it all seemed to work very well as Sidbury notched up a very welcome victory.

Both teams started off brightly and were knocking the ball about with confidence, and both sides created some early chances. Sidbury played a 4-3-3 system in the knowledge that this was a must win game. It also meant that the midfield trio of Scott Redman, Billy Reed and George Harwood had to put in massive performances, and they did not let anyone down.

Todd Lewendon showed his change of pace when he latched onto a lovely through ball, kept his nerve well and cooly beat the keeper to put Sidbury one up. This seemed to spur Sidbury on, and they really grew in confidence. Jack Murrell was a constant menace to the St Martins defence. There was a bit of fortune to Uniteds second,  Harry Wright showed great persistence and was rewarded for his hard work when the ball finally crossed the line via the post and bar.

So into the second half with a two goal cushion and Sidbury coped well and soaked up all that St Martins threw at them. Daryl Young was faultless between the posts and fully deserved his clean sheet. Sidbury put the game beyond doubt with a very well taken goal, after some great play down the left, Harry Wright took an extra touch which enabled him to flick the ball up and then lobbed the keeper.

Connor Long was unlucky not to make it four when his lovely left footed shot hit the bar, and Kai Fletcher was unlucky not to get on the score sheet when he came on as a substitute. Other second half subs Jamie James, George Hathaway and Matt Broom all contributed well when they came on. So it was Sidbury who came out on top in a very entertaining game, well done lads.

Tivvy worked hard right to the end for this result today, in the first half Tivvy's goal tally could have been a lot more but was kept down to 2-0 through missed chances and some cracking saves from the host goalkeeper. Goals coming from a fine strike from Scott Billings and Jay Buckingham grabbing his first goal of the season and Lewis Fraser can count himself unlucky not to get on the score sheet with some long range efforts only to be parried again by Pinhoe's keeper.  

In the second half substitutes Jack Rainey and Euan Howells made a big impact to the game along with some good passing from William Pinnick and good work from Matthew Pengelly to give a much needed lift to Tivvy and with Euan Howells making some cracking runs down the left hand side and putting in some good balls in and around the box it wasn't long before Jack Rainey latched on to shoot to put Tivvy 3-0 up and within minutes Rainey picked the ball up inside Pinhoe's half with a through ball from Jack Dickson to get past 3 defenders and round the keeper to slot home his second.

With further pressure from Tivvy and a good ball into the box Matt Pengelly flicked the ball on the turn over the keepers head to score Tivvy's 5^th, with 10 minutes remaining and some good exchanges in and around Pinhoe's penalty area Jack Rainey fired home his second half hatrick. Hard working Scott McMillan down the right hand side got his just rewards with a cracking right footed rocket high into the left hand corner of the net to finish the game off 7-0.

Well done to Tivvy's defence of Jack Dickson, Ross Holmes and Josh Bruce who cancelled out any threat from Pinhoe throughout leaving Ryan Clarke and Ben Hearn with just a few saves to make, also working hard for the cause Reece Kingdom.

Fair play to Pinhoe Panthers who put in a spirited performance right to the final whistle.  

Also thanks from the whole team go to Pinhoe for their hospitality at the end of the game.

Okehampton Argyle Under 12s  2 - 2 Crediton                        

Okehampton had a slow start and Crediton were quick to take advantage.  A mix up in Argyle's defence allowed them to score past the keeper. 

The match continued fairly even but Argyle lacked the finish and Crediton found the net once again to take them into the second half leading 2-0. 

Okehampton upped their game in the second half playing better football and pressuring Crediton's defence.  This eventually paid off when Foggy put a good cross into the area which found Dan Butler who shot but rebounded for Ross to drive home.

Okehampton battled on for the equalizer and it come through a penalty decision for shirt pulling which Ross  stepped up to take coolly slotting the ball into the corner. 

Argyle looked set to win the game from a cracking goal by Foggy which hit the inside post and bounced in but was disallowed by a dubious decision. 

Man of the match Tallan Burns.

Stoke Hill put in a strong disciplined shift and deservedly came away from Ladysmead with the win and 3 points in the bag,although Tiverton scored first Stoke replied not long after right on half time with the ball crossing the line not once but twice before it was given.

Second half Stoke Hill wanted it more and pushed for that second goal it finally came after plenty of pressure when in form goal scorer Ryan Wallis put it away into the Tiverton net. Goal keeper Jake Tillett had little to do throughout but when called upon made 1 tremendous save,Macauley Burge stuck to his task well as did the whole team,WELL DONE LADS.

For the second week on the trot, Sidbury Utd played one of the leagues joint leaders and gave a very good account of themselves. However two lapses in concentration cost them dearly, against an extremely good and talented Tiverton side.

Both teams started brightly and knocked the ball about well, but as Sidbury began to take control it was Tiverton who took the lead when one of their players did well to get round the back of the Sidbury defence, he then squared the ball for it to be tapped in from close range. Uniteds defence of Aaron Pearse, Daniel Greenland, Ben Logan and Connor Long showed a good mature attitude the way they regrouped, and again proved what a solid unit they can be.

With Daryl Young bravely saving at the feet of a Tivvy player on two occasions, United steadied themselves and started to play some good football. Ten minutes into the second half Sidbury were back on level terms when Scott Redman equalised after some great work down the right, Harry Wright got round the back and put the ball straight into his path.

A very good goal and great to see Scott getting back to his best. Now Sidbury had the bit between their teeth, Todd Lewendon latched onto a wayward pass but his shot hit the side netting. Scott Redman went closer again, but it was not all one way traffic. Kieran Murphy done well when he got back and cleared a certain goal off the line. Billy Reed, George Hathaway, George Harwood and Toby Bouganeau battled for everything throughout the game.

A misunderstanding at the back and Tiverton took the lead after a great solo run by their striker with just five minutes remaining.

Sidbury pushed everyone up in search of an equaliser, and were dealt a cruel blow when they were hit on the break again with another well taken goal. So yet another game where the "Seagulls" have came away from a match pointless when they have deserved so much more.

Every member of the Sidbury team should be very proud of the commitment, and determination they showed today. It was a great game to watch, played in a tremendous spirit and a massive credit to both managers. Kai Fletcher was the unused Sidbury sub.

In this top of the table clash Tiverton U12's found themselves up against a very physical side with end to end football throughout, but it was Tivvy who first found the net 15 minutes into the game when Jack Rainey put in a great corner for William Pinnick to head home and put the hosts 1-0 up. 

As the half progressed Tivvy were playing the better football and created further chances in and around the box and were very unlucky not to put the game out of reach and put themselves in good stead for the second half but just on the stroke of half time gifted an own goal. 

Stoke Hill came out in the second half with more belief for the first 15 minutes and although further chances came from both sides Stoke Hill got the winning goal from a set piece 20 minutes into the half. 

Tivvy as a team worked very hard right to the end and can count themselves very unlucky to come away without any points.

With both strikers and another key player missing through injury this was going to be another tough game to face with Sidbury being a very good footballing side themselves.  Tivvy and Sidbury both looked bright from the start with not much between them but with Tiverton creating the better chances to put themselves 1-0 up with a well worked through ball from Scott Billings for Scott McMillan to score.  Lewis Fraser and Josh Bruce played well in midfield and Jay Buckingham and Will Pinnick worked hard up front to round off a good first half. 

In the second half Tivvy continued to play well and Sidbury were always looking to get back into the game keeping Ben Hearn on his toes but with good pressure equalised early into the second half, this seemed to spur Tivvy on to up their game again with Thomas Parkins and Reece Kingdom playing well put a good ball through to Charles Hunter to score his first goal of the season to put Tivvy a well deserved 2-1 up.  Sidbury kept going right to the end but Tivvy's defence stood strong with Jack Dickson, Euan Howells and Ross Holmes all playing well and with Tivvy finishing the stronger in the last few minutes killed the game off with a third goal from Reece Kingdom.  A very strong performance from Scott McMillan along with Jay Buckingham, Euan Howells, Lewis Fraser and Charles Hunter. 

The whole team would like to express their thanks to Sidbury for their  hospitality after the game.

Sidbury Utd can count themselves extremely unlucky coming away from this match empty handed, because they matched the league leaders in every department throughout the game and given a little of Stoke Hills fortune then the result could have easily been reversed.

United had to soak up some early Stoke Hill pressure, but with the midfield of Scott Redman, George Hathaway, Billy Reed and Kieran Murphy all battling for everything, Sidbury gradually started to get themselves into the game. In fact it was United who had the best two chances of the first half.

Harry Wright saw his volley come back off the Stoke Hill upright, and when George Hathaway put Harry Wright through on the edge of the box, he cut the ball back for Todd Lewendon who saw his shot go agonisingly wide. The second half saw Sidbury take the lead from an Harry Wright strike.

Ben Logan, Aaron Pearse, Daniel Greenland and Connor Long were outstanding at the back, with Connor Long earning my Man of the Match, he did not give an inch and is turning into a very valuable member of the team. Toby Bouganeau on as a substitute made two fantastic goal line clearances, one with his right foot and the other with his head. Sidbury keeper Daryl Young had another great game, but stood no chance when midway through the half Stoke Hill equalised from the penalty spot.

Stoke Hill scored again with about ten minutes to go, a good move was rounded off with another bit of good fortune after Daryl Young bravely dive at the strikers feet, only to see the ball ricochet back into his path and into and he passed it into an empty net.

Jack Murrell come on as a sub and made a big impact on the game. Sidbury nearly equalised twice late on, Harry Wright hit the top of the bar, and from a corner a glancing header went narrowly wide.

Stoke Hill are a good footballing side, and certainly the tallest we have come across, add to that their physical element and you have all the ingredients of a great side. So with that in mind, Sidbury can surely take the positives from this defeat knowing in their minds that they played a very good side, and run them extremely close. Well played lads, and all with a great sporting attitude too.

Thank you also to Kai Fletcher and Jamie James who were the unused subs.

 After going 1-0 down in the first half Stoke Hill rolled their sleeves up and pulled one back when Ryan Wallis was  brought down in the box,he then calmly tucked the pen away.

Stoke proved to strong in the latter stages of the game when Ethan Chalk was put through with a 1 on 1 against a very good Sidbury keeper and managed to coolly stick it in the back the Sidbury net,the goal celebration after was well worthy of the goal.

Well done to all the Stoke Hill side who showed great character and sportsmanship throughout the game.

On a firm but bobbly pitch and with every type of weather for the season, Culm started brightly and took the lead on 5' when Michael Winter's through ball set up Ross Oaten who shot low from 7 yards for 1-0. Despite edging close to a second, it was Lympstone who equalised with a speculative but well hit shot from 25 yards, after 22'.

Culm retook the lead through Daniel Hayfield, who latched on to a good pass in the box by Sam Stockman after 28'and Harry Martin was forced into a good save when the hosts went close again before halftime. Into the second half, Oaten scored his second for 3-1 after an excellent chest-down and run on 40', before the lively Stockman ran through the Lympstone defence to square for Hayfield to make it 4-1 from close range 10' later.

Lympstone pulled one back with an excellent header from a corner before the talismanic Joe Brooks came and and scored a right foot volley into the bottom left hand corner after good work from Hayfield, to seal a fine 5-2 victory.

Well played to Will Gorman, Josh Hart, Cameron Wright, Macca Broome and Ashley Grant.

Argyle were counting themselves lucky today managing to pull off a win with a very below par performance from several members of the team.

Chances fell to both teams, Ben Jarvis for Argyle saw his header hit the bar and at the other end Heavitree having been awarded a free kick at the edge of the area were denied by a good block from an Argyle defender.

Okehampton pulled ahead when a cross by Ben Jarvis was cleared by a heavitree defender but fell at the feet of Ross Voaden who knocked it in.

They later secured their second when a shot by Ross was saved and Tallan Burns ran onto the rebound and slotted the ball into the corner of the net.

A push from an Argyle defender earned Heavitree a penalty which hit the underside of the bar and bounded in leaving the keeper no chance of saving.

Argyle pressured the Heavitree goal but a counter attack saw a Heavitree player out pace the Argyle defenders and score past the keeper. This saw the teams finish the first half even at 2-2.

The second half saw more goalmouth action from both teams. Ben barkwill provided a good ball to Ross Voaden who made a good run breaking away from his defender and shooting past the keeper.

Heavitree retaliated with a goal of their own to bring the scores level at 3-3.

 Ryan Gross battled for Argyle putting in an excellent performance throughout, defending well and attacking from the right wing providing some super crosses.

Tallan Burns also had a good commanding game slotting into central defence after an injury to Ben barkwill

Both teams fought for the win but is was Argyle who achieved the final goal, set up by Ross Voaden who had a good second half performance and dodged two defenders to provide a cross to Ben Jarvis right in front of goal which he knocked in to finish the game at 4-3, capping a good solid performance from Ben Jarvis.

Man of the match was Ryan gross  

Sidbury Utd were made to work extremely hard for this win away to Pinhoe, Sidbury found it difficult to break down a very determined Pinhoe side. Although Utd played with a totally new look to the left side of the team, it should not have caused the confusion that it initially seemed to.

Daniel Greenland steadied the Utd defence. Midfielders Scott Redman, George Hathaway and Billy Reed battled, and pressed well the entire game. Sidbury were finding it difficult to turn possession into goals.

With just 10 mins of the first half remaining, a great move started with Billy Reed picking the ball up in midfield, he slid a pass to Todd Lewendon who beat his defender and cooly put the ball into the path of Harry Wright who smashed the ball home. Sidbury had a couple more chances to score following moves down their right side, but were unable to make the best of the final ball.

The second half was much the same, Aaron Pearse was his normal reliable self, covering every blade of grass on the pitch. Kieran Murphy went on a great solo run from his own half, a quick one-two with Todd Lewendon only to see his final effort tipped round the post. United had several other chances

Centre half Toby Bouganeau had to replace keeper Daryl Young after he came out and bravely saved at the feet of the Pinhoe striker, Bouganeau pulled off a great save towards the end, well done mate, I know you were a bit reluctant, but you saved the day. Kai Fletcher did well when he came on, almost making an instant impression. Jamie James too, got on in the right of midfield and did well.

Ben Logan can consider himself extremely unlucky when he smashed a shot from well outside the box only to see it thunder against the Pinhoe bar. Harry Wright now playing at centre half scored a cracker from the edge of the box, a great strike that gave the Pinhoe keeper no chance, 0-2 to Utd.

Pinhoe pulled a goal back straight from the restart with Utd still with their minds elsewhere. It was an entertaining game, which both sides played with a great attitude.

Argyle travelled away to St Martins this week for what proved to be a closely fought contest.  Argyle found it difficult to adapt to the bouncing ball but worked hard and had the majority of possession but St Martins defence were excellent and held strong and by the end of the first half had denied Okehampton every opportunity finishing at 0-0. 

Argyle started the second half strongly and came close to scoring when Ross Voaden put a through ball to Ben Bickle who made a good run and lobbed the ball just over the bar.

Argyle continued to pressure but St Martins defence closed down quickly and they looked dangerous on the counter attack but good solid defending from Ryan Gross Liam Alford Ben Barkwill and Rhys Palmer kept them at bay. 

Hard work in the mid field from Bickle and Fogerty gave chances for the attackers to score which eventually paid off when Voaden lost his defenders and scored from a tight angle.

A good team performance capped off by a superb tackle at the end of the game by Gross denied St Martins a shot at goal.

Man of the match Daniel Foggerty

A superb standard of football played by both teams in great spirit.

Sidbury Utd were made to work extremely hard for this win away to Pinhoe, Sidbury found it difficult to break down a very determined Pinhoe side. Although Utd played with a totally new look to the left side of the team, it should not have caused the confusion that it initially seemed to. Daniel Greenland steadied the Utd defence and is now an extremely influential, reliable player, and I think would be one of the first names on the team sheet.

Midfielders Scott Redman, George Hathaway and Billy Reed battled, and pressed well the entire game. Sidbury were finding it difficult to turn possession into goals. With just 10 mins of the first half remaining, a great move started with Billy Reed picking the ball up in midfield, he slid a pass to Todd Lewendon who beat his defender and cooly put the ball into the path of Harry Wright who smashed the ball home.

Sidbury had a couple more chances to score following moves down their right side, but were unable to make the best of the final ball. The second half was much the same, Aaron Pearse was his normal reliable self, covering every blade of grass on the pitch. Kieran Murphy went on a great solo run from his own half, a quick one-two with Todd Lewendon only to see his final effort tipped round the post. United had several other chances Centre half Toby Bouganeau had to replace keeper Daryl Young after he came out and bravely saved at the feet of the Pinhoe striker, Bouganeau pulled off a great save towards the end, well done mate, I know you were a bit reluctant, but you saved the day.

Kai Fletcher did well when he came on, almost making an instant impression. Jamie James too, got on in the right of midfield and did well. Ben Logan can consider himself extremely unlucky when he smashed a shot from well outside the box only to see it thunder against the Pinhoe bar. Harry Wright now playing at centre half scored a cracker from the edge of the box, a great strike that gave the Pinhoe keeper no chance, 0-2 to Utd. Pinhoe pulled a goal back straight from the restart with Utd still with their minds elsewhere. It was an entertaining game, which both sides played with a great attitude.

Looking at it from a Sidbury perspective it was a scrappy win, but with 3pts in the bag, it's nice to win ugly once in a while. Usamah Elmaghady was the unused sub and deserves a pat on the back from everyone.

Tivvy worked extremely hard throughout this game and deserved to come away with the 3 points and although Heavitree worked hard for the cause themselves it was Tivvy who created the most chances and were unlucky not to score a few more goals if it wasn't for the uneven pitch causing the ball to sit up on several occasions and Heavitree's keeper who was on fine form throughtout, but it wasn't from the lack of trying with Jack Rainey working his socks off upfront along with Matthew Pengelly and midfielders Scott McMillan, Josh Bruce and Scott Billings also working tirelessly throughout.  

Tivvy's goal came 5 minutes into the second half with a neat exchange of passes which Jack Dickson finished off by drilling low into the left hand corner.  With Heavitree looking to get through Tivvys defense to force chances for themselves they were equally matched with stout defending from Ollie Morgan, Jack Dickson and Ross Holmes.  Lewis Fraser, William Pinnick, Thomas Parkins and Reece Kingdom all played well in midfield and both keepers Ryan Clarke and Ben Hearn both contributed well between the sticks. 

Well done to both sets of boys for a good spirited game and thanks to Heavitree's referee who was spot on throughout.

Tiverton Town U12's were at home in the quarter finals of the league cup and came out worthy 3-2 winners.  With the wind playing a big part in this game both teams struggled to get the ball down and play good football.

Tivvy were made to wait until the remaining minutes of the game when some good exchanges of passes from Ollie Morgan, Thomas Parkins and Scott McMillan produced a good ball through to Jack Rainey in the final third to score the winner.  Other goals coming from a cracking edge of the box strike from Jack Dickson and a well taken corner from Jack Rainey driven in off a Sidbury defender. 

Excellent effort all round from the whole team especially in the second half and strong performances coming from Ryan Clarke, Scott McMillan, Ollie Morgan and Scott Billings.

Sidbury United bowed out of this seasons cup competition after a great game away to in form Tiverton Town. A very entertaining match in which both sides should be applauded for their commitment, attitude and spirit. Tiverton play great football, and their confidence is high from a near on exemplary league season thus far, Sidbury however have had an up and down season and although their league position does not do them justice, their confidence has suffered.

So this was understandably a game of contrasting styles, but a fabulous cup tie all the same. Sidbury soaked up some early Tiverton pressure, with Ben Logan, Toby Bouganeau, Connor Long, and Daniel Greenland all putting in good solid performances in the United defence. Then fifteen minutes into the game Aaron Pearse thundered Sidbury into the lead with a great strike from just outside the area.

Tivvy equalised from a corner which Toby Bouganeau did well to volley, only to see his clearance take a wicked ricochet which ended up in the Sidbury net. Having said that their was no luck involved in the Tiverton second goal, a great strike from the edge of the box, a quality finish to put Tivvy 2-1 to the good.

With the welcome return to the Sidbury attack to Harry Wright, who was a constant threat up front. Sidbury began to claw their way back into the game. Then from another Sidbury free kick, Billy Reed helped the ball on with a deft volley which wrong footed the Tivvy keeper and found the back of the net. So half time whistle went with the sides level at 2-2. Scott Redman, Kieran Murphy, George "Fozzy" Harwood and George Hathaway all worked their socks off in midfield.

Tiverton almost re-took the lead when with the keeper beaten, and the ball goal bound, Kieran Murphy managed to slide in and clear the ball off the line. Todd Lewendon came on as a second half sub, and his pace added to the Sidbury attack. Matt Broom had to quickly adapt to the pace of the game when he too came on.

As the game went on Sidbury had more and more of the game. The Tivvy keeper pulled off a marvellous save in the last 10 minutes to keep the scores level Sidbury thought they had won the game in the last minute when they had the ball in the net, but it was judged to be off-side. So with just a matter of seconds remaining and extra-time looming, Tivvy broke straight through the middle, rounded the keeper and dealt United a devastating blow, with a well taken match winning goal.

Despite United conceding three goals keeper Daryl Young had another good game between the sticks, and is proving to be an asset. With United nearly with a full squad a special mention to the lads who didn't get on, Jamie James and Kai Fletcher, thanks for your support and attitude. So a disappointing result but a performance which the boys can hold their heads high, and carry over into the remaining league fixtures.

Excellent game lads, I'm sure I'm not alone when I say I'm proud of you all.

Okehampton got off to a flying start when within the first minute Ross Voaden manoeuvred the ball around the Culm defence passing to Ollie Crimmins to score the first goal. Culm seemed to collect themselves together to challenge the Oke defenders who held tight, showing superb teamwork from Liam, Rhys, Ryan, and Ben Barkwell.

An excellent threw ball from Ollie enabled Ross to achieve the next goal. Ross scored his second goal by a penalty given by the away defence.

Culm, again didn't give up and good saving throughout the match from Aaron Dearing enabled a clean sheet.

Foggy and Tallon Burns maintained a strong midfield.

Jamie Mallett then took a free kick from the edge of the area allowing Ben Bickle to pass onto Ross who did a great finish, making it a hat trick!

Okehampton played superb football during the whole of the game everyone on the  team deserved and were awarded with Man of the Match.

Lympstone and Pinhoe went head to head in this entertaining encounter which saw Lympstone start the better of the two sides. Pinhoe found themselves pinned back from the off when Lymstone midfield maestro Tom Hurley was making all the play, pushing the ball into the paths of wingers Harry Stott and Lewis Wartnaby whose crossing was excellent.

The first goal came after a great move from just inside the Pinhoe half saw Lympstones Jack Aldrige launch a long ball into the path of Tom Hurley, who hit a crisp volley to the right side of the Pinhoe keeper. Lympstone continued with lots of pressure which saw a long distance effort by Captain Olvier Dawe hit the back of the net after 15 minutes.

Pinhoe tried hard to clear their lines but found the intense pressure and bit too much and a great solo effort from striker Sam Warren saw Lympstone go into the second half 3 goals to the good. The second half saw a total transformation from Pinhoe who from the off were very attack minded, and passed the ball excellently to get themselves back into the game with a well taken goal. Lympstones concentration started to wayne at this point and to give Pinhoe credit they took full advantage playing some really good football, however the defensive back line of Rob Norton, Callum Dickinson,

Man of the match Liam Matthew and left back Jonah Holden stood firm tackled hard and prevented Pinhoe from scoring another goal. After 20 minutes of the second half Lympstone started to take the asendancy once more and a fantastic run by Lympstone winger Wartnaby saw the Lympits go into a 4-1 lead.

With more and more chances coming the way of Lympstone the Pinhoe goalkeepers supberb saves only led to Lympstone frustration but eventually the pressure from the Lympstone forward line told and winger Harry Stott shot home a great goal. With valuable contributions from Lympstones Jack Carmody, Harvey Sumner, Conner Phare, Matt Murphy, Jack Manning, Matt Bolt and great concentration from Keeper Nicky Bolt a great all round team performance from Lympstone w ho continue to go from strength to strength.

All in all a great game played in a competative spirit and credit to both sets of players for an entertaining game.

The match was played on a firm albeit small pitch in relative warmth and Okehampton were off to a flying start within 30 seconds when Culm allowed play to find its way into their 6 yard area for a simple tap-in.

As the game settled, Culm came into it more and made a few openings but were then ulocked again following a lightening counter-attack (0-2). After the hosts goalkeeper pulled off an excellent save to deny Culm's Ross Oaten, Okehampton scored again from the penalty spot. From the restart, Okehampton soon made it 0-4, but Culm were not going to lie down easily.

Macaulay Broome, Timmy Miles, Cameron Wright, Ashley Grant and Oaten rolled up their sleeves to battle through the rest of the game and they created one or two openings which, on another day, might have closed the marginbut today resulted in a missed penalty and an excellent foot of the post save from a Broome freekick.

However, take nothing away from Okehampton, they played very well in every position. Well played also to Ben Tucker, Josh Hart, Harry Martin and Sam Stockman.

Sidbury United kept a clean sheet for the first time this season and scored twice, very late into the game to gain all three points.

Man of the Match Daniel Greenland was solid at the heart of the Sidbury defence. Ben Logan and Cody Northcott are also back to their consistent best. Sidbury had a lot of possession, but found it difficult to test the Crediton keeper. Shots being blocked, scuffed or even totally miss kicked. It seemed that United having played some good football in the build up, then panicked when in front of goal.

Keeper Daryl Young had an excellent game pulling off a very good save towards the end of the match, but it was his commanding of his area that really stood out. Scott Redman, George Hathaway and Kieran Murphy worked tirelessly in midfield and battled for everything.

Todd Lewendon and Billy Reed caused the Crediton defence problems, but the final touch just seemed to elude them. So the teams went into the half time break at 0-0.

The second half was very similar to the first, George Harwood made a big difference when he came on and Sidbury seemed to have a better balance to it. Jamie James and Kai Fletcher also made a contribution as second half subs. For all their huff and puff, it looked like this game had 0-0 written all over it.

Until that is after some late pressure from Sidbury resulted in a couple of corners, the second of which Connor Long put in an excellent ball which Aaron Pearse rose and met well, heading high into the right corner of the net, to break the deadlock with just minutes left. United were very fortunate in their second goal a minute later, when substitute Toby Bouganeau finally scrambled the ball home via the post, after a goalmouth scramble.

All in all it was a closely fought contest which both teams contributed to, and Crediton can hold their heads high and consider themselves unlucky to concede so late on.

 After all the midweek snow, the Tivvy groundsman did well to prepare what turned out to be a slightly heavy but otherwise good surface.

The battle for the midfield was ebb and flow until some good passing from the hosts opened the Culm defence and a good finish into the far corner put Tivvy one-up. Until half time, there were no further clear openings but it wasn't for lack of trying.

Into the second half, and Town started brightly and put the Culm penalty area under siege for spells. Harry Martin and a defiant defence stood firm but all the time, Culm posed a threat on the break. Midway through the half, Ross Oaten's quick foot nipped a fine through ball away from ihs marker and he was clear on goal. As he fired in a low shot, the Tivvy 'keeper did briliantly to thwart him with ihs legs. It may have been a turning point because Tivvy scored two late strikes which may have made the overall margin of victory slightly harsh on Culm.

Well played Tiverton, but good performances from Ross Oaten, Josh hart, Ben Tucker, Sam Stockman and Cameron Wright.

Lympstone responded to their defeat to Tiverton with a hard fought battle against a very good West Hill side. The first half being even was mostly fought out in the midfield with some strong tackling but good even passing and movment. Both sides made some chances only to see them well taken by the goalkeepers or go wide of the mark.

With it all square at the end of the first half both teams continued with long ball play, but when finally Lympstone mangaged to get the ball down and pass and move it opened up for them to take their chances.

Lympstone Right back Rob Norton did a long overlapping run to cut inside and shoot from just outside the box his shot went through a crowd of players but ended up in the bottom right of the net. West Hill at this point did not let their heads go down and battled hard in the midfield to try and create, they were through on goal several times but some quick thinking defending and some great goalkeeping by Lympstone saw their chances go array.

In the final third Lympstones fitness started to tell as the hard working West Hill side tired which allowed Lympstone to take advantage in the wide areas and goals by Harry Stott and Sam Warren saw Lympstone home to hard fought victory. All in all a good game played in a good sporting way,

West Hill should be proud of their performance today they worked hard and perhaps were unlucky not to score..

St Martins started strongly and was unfortunate their goal was given offside in the first 10 minutes, towards the last 10 minutes of first half Stoke Hill started to take hold of the game,and second half came out even stronger.

Jordan Major was unlucky to be ruled offside with a well taken goal. Ryan Wallis went on one of his dazzling runs passing 4 players towards goal only to be brought down in the penalty box,he then calmly stepped up and put it away,Stoke built on this and carried on applying the pressure, again Ryan Wallis was put in with a great pass from Macaulay burge which was finished with a well executed lob.

Overall a good game of football from both teams accompanied by a good standard of refereeing,also thanks to St Martins for their hospitality.

On a heavy sticky pitch Tiverton Town U12's secured a 3-0 win home to a physical Culm United side who made Tivvy work hard from the off but who were equally up for this local derby. 

The game started off fairly even but it was Tivvy who broke the deadlock after 10 minutes with a good ball in from Scott Billings for Jack Rainey to turn and stike the ball into the bottom  left hand corner to put the hosts a much needed 1-0 up.  With some spells of good football from both sets of players, Tivvys Ollie Morgan and Thomas Parkins worked well in the middle of midfield and were always trying to get the ball out in wide positions to the hard working duo of Scott McMillan and Scott Billings whenever they could to link up well with the forward line of Jack Rainey and William Pinnick.   

Although Culm were trying to create a few chances of their own to get back into the game Tivvy's defence of Jack Dickson, Charles Hunter, Ross Holmes and Reece Kingdom stood strong throughout.  In the second half Tivvy carried on where they left off trying to keep the ball and get it out to wide positions which paid off with a good through ball from Jack Rainey which was equally met with an excellent run from Scott McMillan down the right hand side to put a good cross in for a well taken goal from Lewis Fraser. 

Culm's best chance of the game came not long after when they managed to break through Tivvys defence to leave a one on one chance only for Ryan Clarke to pull off a great save.  Tivvy were gaining more possession inside the visitors half and further pressure paid off with another fine strike from Lewis Fraser to grab his brace which seemed to kill the game off. 

Also working hard for the cause and playing well was Josh Bruce.  Considering the playing conditions today full credit goes to both sets of players for trying to keep the ball down to play some good football. 

Thanks to Chris Holland for all his hard work on the pitch and letting the game go ahead.

Sidbury United and Okehampton played out a fantastic, entertaining game of football, which was a pleasure to watch. With both sides doing enough to win the match, and neither deserving to lose, then I believe a draw was a fairest result.

Both teams had chances to break the deadlock early on, Ben Logan and Billy Reed both had their efforts on goal blocked. 

Stand-in goalkeeper Toby Bouganeau was great between the sticks, and with Ben Logan, Cody Northcott and Daniel Greenland all putting in good solid performances in the Sidbury defence. Scott Redman and his second half replacement Matt Broom both battled hard in midfield. However it was Sidbury who went one nil down, when Okehampton scored after a goalmouth scramble.

When Georgie Hathaway was bought down in the area, Billy Reed stepped up and smashed the ball into the left bottom corner, for Uniteds equaliser. The rest of the half was a very even contest.

Okehampton retook the lead in the second half with a great move down the left which flat footed the Sidbury defence. Sidbury battled hard to get back in the game, Man of the Match Aaron Pearse was immense all over the pitch. Sidbury counter attacked when Kieran Murphys quick through ball, put Todd Lewendon through on goal who buried the ball beyond the advancing keeper.

Sidbury dominated for long periods in the second half and were unlucky not to get a third when with just 8 minutes remaining Todd Lewendon hit the post with a half volley from a Connor Long corner. Having said that Okehampton went pushing for a winner late on, and really tested the Sidbury defence.

So a fair result and a great game, where both teams made the ball do the work, and used every blade of grass on the pitch. Both teams should be proud of their performances.

Special thanks goes to Jamie James who was Uniteds unfortunate unused substitute

Sidbury U12                             2
Okehampton Argyle U12          2

Argyle started brightly and a goalmouth scramble saw Ollie Francis put one away for Argyle within the first five minutes.  This lead though was short lived when a penalty was awarded to Sidbury which was well taken and brought the game back level.

Despite several chances neither team managed to take a lead into the interval, 

During the second half both teams fought to break the draw and Argyle succeeded with just five minutes remaining through a good cross by Ollie Crimmins to Ross Voaden who slotted it past the keeper.

A brief lapse in concentation within minutes allowed a Sidbury player to breakaway from Argyles defenders to bring back the scoring level.

Argyle pressured for the winning goal but the score ended 2-2.

Man of the match Daniel Foggerty

Lympstone Eagles 2 Tiverton Town 5

Lympstone were on the end of and unlucky defeat after leading 2-1 for most of the game. But with 20 mins to go Tivertons pressure told and Lympstone conceeded 4 quick goals after losing there concentration due to injuries to other players. A good game played with a competative spirit through out but Lympstone should be proud of their performance today they deserved a bit more than what they got, but Tiverton defended the counter attacks well created some good chances which they took.

Lympstone 2 - 5 Tiverton Town

Tiverton Town were away to Lympstone Eagles with three key players missing to leave themselves with only 12 outfield players but did not disappoint putting in an excellent strong all round team performance.  Although Tivvy looked to start the brighter it took a while for Tivvy's defence to mould into what they had to do after going a goal behind after the Eagles played the long ball to shoot and put the hosts ahead within the first 5 minutes and with Tivvy showing good promise spurned a few chances it was 15 minutes when the equaliser came from a good run from Jack Rainey to shoot Tivvy back on level terms.

With Tivvy now getting on top edging more and more into the Lympstones half the ball was pumped high again over the top and Tivvys defence made a hash of what should have been a comfortable clearance gifted the hosts a 2-1 lead going into the break.  In the second half Tivvy came out the stronger side playing some excellent football and within 5 minutes Jack Rainey picked up the ball from just inside his own half with another strong run to finish with another good strike and to put Tivvy back on level terms. 

With 25 minutes remaining confidence was flowing through the side and a quick goal soon followed and with some neat football from Tivvy Reece Kingdom fired home the 3^rd to put Tivvy a well deserved 3-2 up.  With Tivvy's defence of Jack Dickson, Ross Holmes, Charles Hunter and Reece Kingdom  in excellent form in the second half cancelling out any chance of Lympstone getting back in the game, Tivvy carried on pressing high into the hosts half with good play from Thomas Parkins and Lewis Fraser in central midfield interacting on both flanks with Scott McMillan and Will Pinnick to create some good chances in and around Lympstones box.

A good ball to Jack Rainey to put across the goal for Matt Pengelly to shoot home Tivvy's fourth to kill off any chance of a comeback.  With 15 minutes to go Josh Bruce got on the end of a Jack Dickson free kick to round off the rout to put Tivvy 5-2 up.  Tivvy created a number of further chances and were unlucky not further their lead with the game finishing 5-2.  Well done to all the boys who showed great spirit and determination throughout the game for a well earned victory. 

Very strong performances from Jack Dickson, Jack Rainey, Scott McMillan and William Pinnick.

On a firm but bumpy pitch, Culm put in one of their better displays this season. Macaulay Broome and Charlie Smith are important influences and they not only broke up any Heavies possession but also provided the platform for frash Culm attacks.

After a fairly toight opening 20', Culm did carve open some chances but it was not until the second half that the visitors were able to get the rewards for their hard work. Ross Oaten was always a threat and when he turned and hit a volley into the far corner, the team immediately grew in confidence. When the hosts lost possession from a corner, Oaten then ran 2/3rds of the length of the pitch and under pressure, managed to pass the ball into the far corner.

He was then adjudged to have been pulled back in the area for a penalty, which the excellent Charlie Smith despatched. Daniel Hayfield then took a loose ball on the edge of the area and coolly made it 4-0 before Joe Brooks came up with the goal of the game. When a shot was blocked and rolled out to him, he curled it into the top left hand corner.

Heavies maintained a battling spirit and during a purple patch towards the end, pulled a goal back. Well played also to Josh Hart, Ben Tucker, Cameron Wright, Rory Thomas and Sam Stockman.

Stoke Hill Spurs started brightly keeping Crediton camped in there own half,Stoke won two Corners in the first ten minutes,Ryan Wallis put two pin point deliveries causing panic in the Crediton defence which lead to two own goals.

Stoke playing flowing football, found the net three more times in the first half from Tarji Jones (2) and Ryan Wallis taking a half time lead 5-0. Stoke still controlling the second half taking the game to Credtion,dominating all areas of the pitch,defence controlling any threat from Crediton,midfield linking well with there strikers led to a 25 yard strike ending up in the top left hand corner from Ethan Chalk.

Ryan Wallis completed is hat-trick with two more goals making the full time score 8-0, Well done to all the boys for entertaining the home supporters with free flowing attractive football.

On a slightly sticky pitch both teams played a competitive fixture that was quite tight early on. As Culm tried to play to feet through midfield, they were in danger from long balls played over the central area from the opposition.

It was not until Ross Oaten put Culm ahead after 20', that the team settled and began to play with some purpose and by halftime, Oaten had extended his and the teams goal tally to 4. After the break, Oaten quickly added a fifth after a Daniel Hayfield freekick came back off the crossbar before changes were made to try players in different positions. 

Pinhoe were always spirited and credit to them all and they forced a rare error from the otherwise excellent Harry Martin, before Oaten's late header ended the scoring. Well played to Macca Broome, Ben Tucker, Ashley Grant, Josh Hart and Sam Stockman.

Lympstone started the better of the two sides with some great wing play which enable the attacking midfield to get into the box and create chances. 5 Minutes into the first half saw Lympstone get a penalty when one of the midfielders was brought down in the box.

The Lympstone Captain stepped up to take the pen only to see it well saved by the Okehampton goalkeeper. This did not detract from Lympstones attacking play as they then created another chance which saw the Lympstone striker slot home a great finish. Okehampton did not let their heads go down at this point and seemed to be struck into life and they equalised some 5 minutes later, created by some fantastic passing and movement in the midfield. With it all square at half time Okehampton started the 2nd half the better of the two and created another good chance which was slotted home nicely to take them into a 2-1 lead.

Lympstone though carried on as they did in the first half and battled hard to create another chance hit just inside the box. With both teams level the last quarter of the game was fought intensly by both sides but Lympstone then got the asendancy in the midfield and created another great goal from some quick thinking by the Lympstone striker, with the game poised at 3-2 it was clear Okehampton were not going down without a fight and with some more passing and movement in the midfield another chance for them was created on the right that was slotted under the Lympstone keepers body.

With the score at 3-3 it was a fine peice of midfield play making which saw a great through ball taken by Lympstones left winger who slotted home the winner.

There are some words which do not do justice to some games and to put it plainly this was one hell of a game, played out in a great spirit with a competative edge that would put some premiership games to shame.

In their third meeting of the season Tivvy were home to St Martins and after a close encounter last week it was a very evenly contested game between the two sides. 

Although Tivvy were always on top when it came to possession they gave away 2 early goals through sloppy defending, but with a fine strike from Jack Rainey into the bottom corner Tivvy went in at the break 2-1.  Coming out in the second half Tivvy were looking the more likeliest to score but were giving the killer blow when St Martins scored a well taken goal to put themselves 3-1 up,  although the score was going against Tivvy they did not let their heads drop and were creating more and more chances to get back in the game and with Jack Dickson being felled inside the box to win a penalty Jack Rainey stepped and made no mistake to put Tivvy now a goal behind 3-2. 

In the last 10 minutes Tivvy were chucking everything at St Martins looking for the third goal and coming close on several occasions but they had to wait until the dying seconds of the game for Ollie Morgan to get a clean strike on goal with a fine strike into the bottom right hand corner to level the game to give Tivvy a well deserved point. 

Putting in strong performances were Scott McMillan, Ollie Morgan and Jack Rainey and also playing well Ben Hearn, Ryan Clarke, Lewis Fraser, Ross Holmes, Jack Dickson, William Pinnick, Scott Billings, Thomas Parkins, Matthew Pengelly, Reece Kingdom and Josh Bruce.

Thanks to Ryan German for refereeing the game at short notice.

 Sidbury  2 - 1 West Exe

Sidbury United had to come from behind to win this great cup tie against West Exe Athletic, a game in which both sides contributed fully, and should be applauded for their efforts.

West Exe started the better of the two teams, and were playing with confidence. Whilst the Sidbury defence of Aaron Pearse, Toby Bouganeau, Ben Logan, and Cody Northcott gradually stamped their authority on the game, there were some lapses of concentration all over the pitch early on, which I felt contributed to West Exe's well taken opening goal.

George Hathaway and Scott Redman were their normal busy selves in midfield, and contributed well as Sidbury slowly started to recover from going a goal down. West Exe keeper pulled off a great save from a Cody Northcott shot. Sidbury went close on a couple of other occasions as they started to take control of the game. Midfielders Kieran Murphy and Billy Reed had goal bound shots blocked by defenders, as Sidbury piled on the pressure in search of an equaliser. Sidbury keeper Daryl Young pulled off a blinding save towards the end of the half to keep the score at 0-1 at half time.

The second half began as the first ended, with Sidbury going all out for that goal. Bolstered by having George Harwood now on the right and Connor Long in the centre of midfield, Sidbury really began to turn the screw. Although at times it seemed that lady luck was certainly favouring West Exe, after some great blocks and goal line clearances kept Utd at bay.

Sidbury finally managed to get a bit of luck when a shot was deflected straight into the path of unmarked Harry Wright who made no mistake in finding the back off the net from 10 yards. This seemed to really lift the Sidbury spirits, and you sensed that they would score again. Aaron Pearse made a great run forward with the ball found Harry Wright who in turn tucked the ball neatly into the side netting to give Utd the lead.

The Sidbury substitutes Matt Broom, Jamie James, Kai Fletcher all helped the cause when they came on. However West Exe really came back strong in the last 5 mins, and except for a last ditch tackle and a goal line clearance both by Toby Bouganeau they would surely have equalised.

So all in all this was a great cup tie, and a tribute to both teams. Sidbury now must take this new found confidence into their league form.

St Martins  2  v  2  Tiverton Town  (1- 3 Pens AET)

 A long lay off and a bobbly pitch making it hard to control the ball throughout the game seemed to take its toll on Tiverton Town U12's who were certainly not their usual selfs in the 2^nd round of the cup away to St Martins  Although Tiverton started the game quite well St Martins defended strongly and it took some good movement between Scott Billings and Matthew Pengelly to cross the ball in behind Jack Rainey for him to turn in and shoot to break the deadlock and put Tivvy ahead. 

Although Tivvy edged it in the first half, St Martins were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box which Ben Hearn done well to get his hands to but St Martins were quickest to re-act to the knock down to make it 1-1.  In this closely contested game with very few chances created from both sides it was St Martins who found the net first in the second half to put themselves in front and at this stage of the game St Martins looked more likely to go on and win the game but with a good move from Ollie Morgan, Jack Rainey and Scott McMillan to shoot across goal for Matt Pengelly to slot home, Tivvy equalised with a couple minutes remaining to send the match into extra time. 

With very tired legs from both sides the deadlock could not be broken in extra time which meant the game had to be decided on penalties with Tiverton coming out 3-1 winners through Matthew Pengelly, Jack Dickson and Jack Rainey and Ben Hearn making 2 excellent saves to put Tivvy through into the next round.  All in all it was never going to be a pretty game of football with the conditions playing a big part but it was the same for both sides and full credit goes out to both sets of players who battled right to the end.  Also working hard throughout William Pinnick, Thomas Parkins, Reece Kingdom, Ross Holmes, Charles Hunter and Josh Bruce.

Culm United Youth 0 Stoke Hill 2

On a decent surface with one or two very soft areas, Culm and Stoke Hill played an entertaining game that was only decided in the last few minutes. Culm were aware of the heavy defeat when the sides met earlier in the season but it was much tighter today. Indeed, for the first 15', Culm were camped in the visitors half but couldn't find a shot to finish some good moves.

Stoke came alive towards the end of the half and with a minute to go were awarded a penalty, which was duly dispatched. In the second half, it was Stoke in the ascendancy as Culm struggled with their shape. Midway through the second half, Culm got second wind and began to threaten Stoke's goal. Stoke went close on the break either side of a superlative effort from Rory Thomas which brought a fine flying save from the visiting keeper.

Then, with Culm piling on the pressure, Ross Oaten and Daniel Hayfield went really close before a long punt up the field left Culm's defence exposed and the game was settled as Stoke's scorer went round the ‘keeper. Culm can count themselves unfortunate not to have won this game but some of the football being played is very good indeed. Finally, a mention for young referee Will Thompson, who officiated impeccably again.

Heavy going with a fast thawing pitch made this game tough going for some. With the ball bobbling and weaving here and there both sides found it hard to control and get there game going.

Pinhoe started the better of the two sides however with some good passing and moving but Lympstone's defensive line stood firm, and Pinhoe only conceded on the break when the Lympstone striker cut through the defensive line to hit a shot worthy of any EPL game, a full 25 yard strike saw Lympstone take the lead 15 minutes into the first half. Pinhoe battled hard in the midfield and again there excellent passing and movement made it tough for the Lympstone defence but they were caught on the counter attack only to see the chance this time hit wide by the Lympstone striker.

As the game wore on tired legs were abound across the pitch and although Lympstone made numerous chances in the second half it wasnt until 20 minutes into the second half that they got their second. A nice passing move from the wings saw a crisp strike end in the bottom right of the net. With both teams tiring after giving their all a strange cross shot deflected off one of the Pinhoe defenders to go in for an unlucky own goal ending the game 3-0. Pinhoe should be proud of their performance today, they battled hard got stuck in and gave a very good account of themselves and were unlucky not too score.

All in all a very good game by both sides played in a good spirit and a credit to the league.

This was going to be Okehampton's toughest game so far this season in very hot conditions.  Sidbury had a long unbeaten run to retain but Okehampton were going to put up a good fight to put  a stop to this.

Okehampton looked strong from the beginning and made several advances but couldn't get it on target.    Benjamin Rowe was on the wing and passed it across the goal and Jamie Mallett came out of nowhere to hit it in the back of the net giving Okehampton the lead.  They then surged forward again with two successive attacks on goal but the Sidbury goalkeeper did some great work and kept the score at 1-0 at half time.

Okehampton knew they had to keep the pressure on and started the second half strongly.  Ben Bickle made a great pass to Ross Voaden who shot and placed it right over the goalie's head.  Okehampton let it slip for a moment and Sidbury charged right up the pitch and got a goal past the Okehampton goalkeeper, Aaron Dearing.  The defence of Ben Barkwill, Ben Jarvis, Ryan Gross and Liam Alford were on the ball and kept the goalie from having much of the ball throughout the game.  Okehampton played some good team moves and Tallan Burns had a great game with superb marking on his players.   Ross Voaden scored his second goal with a really powerful shot from out of the area that went right in the back of the net.  Okehampton's team effort was brilliant and Rhys Palmer played through the second half carrying an injury but his determination never let him give up, even though you could see he was struggling.

Okehampton's only setback was when they gave away a penalty close to the final whistle and Sidbury scored leaving the score at 3-2.

Okehampton's Men of Match: Ross Voaden and Tallan Burns

This was an entertaining game which saw both teams play some great football. There was plenty of action at both ends of the pitch, and chances came and went for both sides. It was an evenly matched game which was decided by some great finishing from the lightening quick Lympstone striker.

Having said that it was Sidbury who took the lead midway through the first half. A good move down the right by Sidbury, saw Harry Wright put a great throughball to Billy Reed, who managed to get a shot at goal from a narrow angle which took a deflection and ended up in the Lympstone net.

Scott Redman was unlucky to see his effort go narrowly wide, after a great solo run. Lympstone equalised with a well taken goal ten minutes before half time. However Sidbury thought they had retaken the lead when a Lympstone defender sliced his clearance from Ben Logans pass, Todd Lewendon latched onto the loose ball and cooly put the ball in the net. Only to be ruled offside.

Fifteen minutes into the second half Sidbury's defence was in disarray after injuries to Cody Northcott, Aaron Pearse and Ben Logan. Lympstone managed to score two quick goals during this transition period. Toby Bouganeau now had three stand in defenders playing alongside him. A couple of Sidbury heads dropped for a brief spell, but they gradually managed to get themselves back into the game.

Keeper Daryl Young played well and pulled some very good saves. Kieran Murphy now playing at right back put a great through ball to Todd Lewendon, who was very unlucky to see his shot hit the post. Matt Broom saw his shot go close. George Hathaway battled tirelessly on the right of midfield. Then Aaron Pearse managed to pull a goal back for Sidbury.

Jamie James and Kai Fletcher also had a say in the game when they came on, but this defeat now puts Sidbury into the bottom four, and some hard work is now called for to get themselves out off this situation, but it's a challenge I'm sure the boys are well capable of achieving. All they have to do is start believing in themselves.

Stoke Hill Under 12s                           1
Okehampton Argyle Under 12s          3

Argyle refaced last weeks opponents,Stoke Hill in an away fixture and with their 5-4 defeat still fresh in their minds were determined to take away the three points this week.

Despite starting fresh and eager Argyle soon found themselves one goal down from a stoke Hill free kick.

Argyles heads didn't go down and good passing play was eventually rewarded when a cross from Daniel Foggerty found Ben Jarvis who blasted the ball into the net.

The teams started the 2^nd half on level terms with Argyle bringing on 3 substitues, Ollie Crimmins, Daniel Butler and Jack Davey who all played a big part in securing the victory.

The next goal went to Argyle and was scored by Ross Voaden who took a through ball, dribbled past 2 defenders and slotted the ball past the keeper.

A well worked team goal starting from the defence, passing through mid field and ending with Ollie Crimmins dribbling around 3 players to score into the corner gave Argyle a 2 goal advantage. 

Argyle had the chance of a fourth when Ross Voaden hit the post with a shot from the edge of the area. 

Stoke Hill piled on the pressure but the defence stood firm with excellent performances from Ryan Gross, Ben Barkwill and Rhys Palmer. 

Two exceptional saves from Aarron Dearing, who had an excellent game throughout, kept the score at 3-1. 

This was a fine performance against a good Stoke team.

Man of the match Aarron Dearing

 Sidbury started the better of the two sides with some good tackling and passing play, and after 10 minutes took the lead with a crisp strike to the bottom right of the keeper. This seemed to kick start the Eagles into action and although Sidbury battled hard it was a smart move from the eagles flanks that saw them equalize 5 minutes from the end of the first half.

With both teams evenly matched in the second half it took a smart through ball from the Eagles midfield which saw the Lympstones striker lach onto a low volley beating the Sidbury keeper. A similar move 5 minutes later saw Eagles go into a 3-1 lead, this though did not deter the dogged hard work of Sidbury who fought back well, and in the last minute managed to snatch a consolation goal.

All in all an excellent display from both sides and a game that was a credit to the league. Report by Brett Collins BSc(hon)

 St Martins travelled to Friends Provident expecting a close game following the reverse fixture between these sides earlier in the season.

They proceeded to give an inconsistent performance against a well organised Heavitree side. Neither side played particularly well and good football was at a premium much to the frustration of the St Martins coaching team.

Heavitree can consider themselves extremely unlucky not to have taken anything from the game as they had more of the play which resulted in some last ditch defending from St Martins and some good saves by Ryan Watkins in the Saints goal. At the end of the first half Dean Billingsley managed to find Connor Batho who shot across the keeper into the far corner for what turned out to be the winner.

Heavitree pushed forward during the second half which did open spaces for the Saints to attack but superb defending by Big T in the Heavitree defence kept them out. Thanks to Martin Matthews and his team for a competitive game which was played in a good spirit throughout. Also thanks to the Heavitree referee who had a good game. The Saints man of the match was James Walkey.

A great game of football played by both teams saw the Spurs side come out on top with some fine finishing in front of goal,Ryan Wallis 3,Macauley Burge with a fine strike from distance and a great solo effort from Jake Tilett

Okehampton Argyle Under 12s          4
Stoke Hill Under 12s                           5

After a two month break both teams couldn't wait to get started and this proved to be a very entertaining game from start to finish with lots of goals and good play from two similarly matched sides.

Stoke Hill started the stronger side and quickly took a two goal lead.  Argyle soon composed themselves and mangaged to pull one back when a good corner by Jamie Mallett was powerfully headed in by Ben Jarvis.

Some good football followed by both teams but Argyle conceded a penalty which was well placed by Stoke to take the scoring to 3 -1 at half time. 

The battle continued in the second half. Another great cross by Jamie Mallet, who had a great game, was rewarded by a good header from Jack Davey finding the back of the net.

Stoke fought back and immediately secured a fourth from a long range shot.

Argyle were awarded a free kick in front of the area which was superbly taken by Ross Voaden and blasted into the top right corner. 

Again the strong battling stoke retaliated with a fifth goal.

Argyle found the net one final time when Voaden made a good left foot strike into the corner of the goal ending the score 5-4.  This was a fantastic game of football played in great spirit by both sides. Men of the Match Jamie Mallett and Ross Voaden

Saints gave an excellent allround team performance against a very useful Heavitree side.
In the first half Saints had several chances to take the lead including a Toby Parker shot that hit the post, but despite this Heavitree took the lead after 28 minutes.

Saints equalised 12 minutes after halftime when James Eginton fired home from just inside the penalty box following a fine pass from Kieran Vinnicombe. 3 minutes later a Jeremy Tucker through ball allowed James Eginton to round the keeper before firing home from an acute angle to give Saints the lead.

With Saints midfield of Kieran Vinnicombe, Jamie Mackenzie, Josh Hill and Eoin Luxmoore linking well throughout the match with Cory Eaton and Jeremy Tucker, Saints fluent style was proving effective. Kieran Vinnicombe increased Saints lead after 53 minutes when he latched onto a Heavitree goalkick to fire the ball back high into the net. 2 minutes later a through ball from James Eginton allowed his strike partner Toby Parker to fire home his first of the day.

With Martin Hodge now providing support up front, Dan Tucker, Alex Rodd and Josh Lambert all defended well in front of Liam Parish as Heavitree fought back to score from a corner with 10 minutes remaining. In stoppage time Saints completed the scoring with 2 goals, the first a pull back from Cory Eaton allowing Toby Parker to lob home from 15 yards, and the second an angled drive from Kieran Vinnicombe following a Jeremy Tucker pass .

Tiverton Town Under 12's kicked off their first game of the new year with a convincing 10-0 victory over a spirited Pinhoe Panthers.  Tivvy found the net early on in the first few minutes and never looked back, considering the heavy conditions the whole team worked their socks off with some excellent movement and finishing Matthew Pengelly opened the scoring to send Tivvy on their way, further goals soon followed from Jack Rainey (4), Scott McMillan (2) William Pinnick, Reece Kingdom and Jack Dickson. 

With much of the game being played in Pinhoe's half full credit must go out to the bravery and shot stopping of Adam Davidson.  Also playing well Scott Billings, Euan Howells, Charles Hunter, Ross Holmes, Thomas Parkins, Josh Bruce, Ben Hearn, Ryan Clarke and Lewis Frazer.

After 6 weeks without competitive football, this was a welcome return to the beautiful game and both teams did not disappoint with an entertaining match. The margin of victory was harsh on Culm who, on another day, might have taken all the points.

St Martins took the lead late in the first half, after a goalmouth melee following a corner. But 2 minutes before the break, and after 3 excellent chances to give Culm the lead, Ross Oaten profited from a defensive mix-up, to slot the equaliser home. Into the second half, a tactical change by St Martins paid dividends early on and within 5 minutes of the restart, they were 3-1 up. As Culm began to find openings, Saints added a 4th before Oaten's second gave Culm some hope.

Culm carved open a number of chances throughout the half, but the difference was that Saints took theirs, including a fifth. Well played to both teams!!

Argyle travelled to Pinhoe and secured a convincing win maintaining their position of 3^rd in the league table. With good football impossible to play due to a wet heavy pitch Argyle put in a valiant effort.

Argyle took the game to Pinhoe from the start and soon took the lead through a good passing move finished by Rhys Palmer who slotted it in the net. Shortly after they made it 2-0 from a good cross by Daniel Foggerty which was bundelled in by Ross Voaden.

With all the play in Pinhoe's half Argyle put  away one further goal before half time when Ross lobbed the keeper. The back four of Liam Alford, Ryan Gross, Ben Jarvis and Ben Barkwill stood firm throughout the game and never looked like being breached. Jamie Mallett controlled the play from the centre of the park. At half time three substitutions were made with Ollie Francis coming on and making an instant impact finishing off an excellent move with a fine shot in the bottom corner. Ben Jarvis finished the scoring with a great individual goal. This was a great team performance in difficult conditions. 

Tivvy U12's continued in winning ways with a well deserved victory at home against a strong Sidbury United, although going a goal behind early in the first half with a lofted strike over Towns keeper, this seemed to spur Tivvy on to up the tempo playing some excellent football and midway through the first half Tivvy got a deserved equaliser through good work down the right hand side Scott McMillan linked up well with a good pass to Jack Rainey to shoot home to put the score level and within 5 minutes more good work from Tivvy pressuring Sidburys defence the hard working Scott McMillan scored with an excellent strike to put the yellows 2-1 up.  Towards the end of the half Tivvy gave away a soft penalty which was a chance for Sidbury to level but with a brilliant save from Ryan Clarke the score remained 2-1 at the break. 

In the second half Sidbury were looking to get back into the game but Tivvy's defence of Charles Hunter, Jack Dickson, Reece Kingdom and Ross Holmes stood strong throughout and midfielders Scott Billings, Thomas Parkins, William Pinnick, Scott McMillan, Matthew Pengelly, Josh Bruce worked tirelessly and with more good passing and movement this time down the right hand side Scott Billings put in a nice through ball to Jack Rainey who was brought down in Sidburys box, and awarded a penalty in which Jack Rainey fired into the top left hand corner giving United's goalkeeper no chance to put tivvy 3-1 up. 

Further scoring opportunities were created from both sides but on the day both sets of goalkeepers were on excellent form.

A depleted Sidbury Utd took to the field away to high flying Tiverton Town and really done themselves proud, despite being beaten 3-1 the patched up side gave Tivvy a real game.

Sidbury started really well and matched Tiverton in every department early on, Aaron Pearse put Sidbury into an early lead after 15 minutes with a long range shot that dipped over the Tivvy keeper, not much later and Matt Broom almost put United two up but saw his shot saved well by the keeper. Cody Northcott was playing well until he had to come off, he bravely came back on late in the second half, which I think epitomised all the boys attitude's today.

Tivvy played some excellent football throughout the game and equalised midway through the half and added a second five minutes later, both were well taken leaving keeper Daryl Young no chance, who it should be said was excellent between the posts and pulled off some great saves. Sidbury had a chance to equalise just before the break when Billy Reed was bought down in the Tivvy box, but their keeper pulled off a great save from Toby Bouganeau's penalty. So Sidbury went into the half time break 2-1 down.

Midfielders Scott Redman, Billy Reed and Kieran Murphy worked tirelessly throughout the game, the latter having to fill in at left back in the second half, and even though not 100% Ben Logan put in a stirring performance. Aaron Pearse and Daniel Greenland were immense at the heart of Sidbury's defence and played out their skins.

Tivvy added to their lead with what looked like a soft penalty, but was taken brilliantly. Sidbury did not let their heads drop and continued to put Tivvy under pressure, coming close on a couple of occasions. Stand in striker Connor Long was a constant menace to Tivvy defence and Jamie James done well on his debut.

So with five first team regulars short, and another three players not 100% match fit, having only one sub, goes to show what a good performance the boys gave against the league leaders. Sidbury really showed the spirit and determination which was lacking last week, so well done lads and thanks.

Saints gained their biggest ever away win with an excellent allround team performance against a Culm  side who never stopped trying to play  good football.

On a freezing cold morning and with conditions sticky underfoot,Saints took the lead after 4 minutes when Toby Parker headed home a Jeremy Tucker cross from close range. 5 minutes later a pass from Toby Parker put in Kieran Vinnicombe to slot home from 10 yards, before a Jeremy Tucker corner was fired home by Ben Sharpe to put Saints 3-0 up after 12 minutes.

Culm then came back into the match with 2 goals in 4 minutes despite the best efforts of goalie James Eginton. Kieran Vinnicombe got Saints back on track with a fine finish  with his second of the match following another cross from the outstanding Jeremy Tucker. With Jamie Mackenzie and Josh Hill both competing well in midfield, Saints completed the first half scoring when Josh Hill played in Jeremy Tucker to fire home from 12 yards out.

At the start of the second half Saints rang the changes and within 2 minutes a Sam Ward shot was parried by the home keeper allowing Toby Parker to follow up from close range. A minute later a fine individual run and shot completed Toby Parkers hatrick. With Alex Rodd, Dan Tucker and Cory Eaton in commanding  form in defence, goalkeeper Liam Parish was able to deal with whatever the home attack delivered. After 42 minutes a Jeremy Tucker cross was tapped in at the far post by defender Dan Tucker following a surging run and 8 minutes later a Kieran Vinnicombe pass allowed Toby Parker to net. With Martin Hodge being given a cameo role upfront, Saints fought hard to try and increase their tally but were denied on several occasions by the home defence. In the final minute James Eginton put in Toby Parker to fire home from an accute angle to net his 5th of the match and his 20th league and cup goal of the season.

Apart from all the above mentioned squad, Josh Lambert and Eoin Luxmoore put in workmanlike performances to complete the day.

An exciting and entertaining match which saw the lead change hands between the 2 teams on 5 occassions!

With 3 players out through illness and unavailability Saints were down to the bare 12 players, and came up against a Lympstone side always an attacking threat.

The visitors took the lead after 2 minutes, and Saints might of thought it was not going to be thier day when firstly a Toby Parker 20 yarder hit the inside of the post before running along the line and then secondly a visiting defender saw his keeper pull off a remarkable save to prevent an own goal. However after 10 minutes Saints were level when Toby Parker crossed from the right and Ben Sharpe was on hand to tap home.Saints took the lead after 25 minutes when a James Eginton goal kick was fired home by Ben Sharpe. On the stroke of halftime Lympstone equalised with a well worked move.

Immediately after the restart Lympstone were awarded a penalty , which once again put Lympstone ahead. 2 minutes later another James Eginton goalkick set up another Saints equaliser when Toby Parker raced through to slot home.With both sides battling it out in midfield there were no more goals until the final 10 minutes when Saints regained the lead when Ben Sharpe completed his hatrick slotting home another Toby Parker cross. Just 2 minutes later Lympstone were awarded another penalty which once again brought the scores level.

With both side pushing for the winner it was Saints who secured all 3  points with a solo effort from Toby Parker  in the last minute, to send the home fans wild with delight. Despite the score there were good defensive performances from Dan Tucker and Alex Rodd, and Cory Eaton continues to consistantly play some  superb football whether playing in defence or midfield . 

Tivvy U12's hosted a very strong physical Okehampton side at Ladysmead, in what turned out to be a very competitive game throughout which no side wanted to lose.  In the first half Tivvy found it hard to get into their stride to break down Okey which gave the away side more and more confidence to get forward themselves causing Tivvy a few problems and with both teams probably sharing an equal amount of possession, cancelling each other out leaving  both sets of goalkeepers just having a few saves to make the first half ended 0-0.

In the second half both teams carried on where they left off competing for every ball, but as the game progressed Tivvy were getting more of the ball and looking to work the ball into Okeys half a lot better to create scoring opportunities and with some excellent passing and movement down the right handside Jack Dickson hit in a low driving cross into the box which Jack Rainey was first to react with a well taken goal to give the visiting goalkeeper no chance to put the yellows 1-0 up.  With about 15 minutes remaining Tivvy had to be on their guard to stop any sort of a come back with the no nonsense Josh Bruce putting in some excellent challenges in the middle of midfield this allowed Tivvy to keep the ball that bit better between the midfield and forward line to keep the ball in Okeys half with the yellows finishing the game that bit stronger to win 1-0. Strong performances from Josh Bruce, Jack Dickson, Reece Kingdom, Scott Billings and Ross Holmes well done to all the boys from the defence to the forward line who worked extremely hard right to the end. 

Special thanks from both sides goes out to chief groundsman Gordon Curtis allowing the game to be switched to Ladysmead at such short notice.

Difficult conditions in the first half saw the Spurs side only go into half time with 2 goals although plenty of chances went begging past the Panthers post, and also a cracking strike from Ethan Chalk which fizzed off the cross bar.

Second half saw a great display of football from the Spurs side with a further 7 goals,two magnificent hat-ricks from James Chudley and Ethan Chalk,a well taken goal from Jordan Major assisted from Tarji Jones,a great through ball from Lewis Fraser set Ryan Wallis up who finished well also Defender Jack Saunders pushed up second half and was also rewarded with a great goal. Well done to the Panthers who never gave up the fight and thankyou to the ladies who were making the Bacon rolls at the end.

St Martins started the game strongly and played some lovely passing football without really creating any clear cut chances.

This is a credit to the Crediton defence who stood firm under pressure. Crediton were always dangerous on the break using their pacy forwards to good effect and created a couple of clear chances which they failed to take advantage of. Late in the 1st half a corner from St Martins was only cleared as far as James Walkey who drove a left foot strike into the bottom corner to make it 1 nil. This is how the score stayed until half time.

St Martins started the 2nd half very brightly putting the Crediton defence under pressure which resulted in Myles James putting the Saints two up following a great interchange between James Walkey, Connor Batho and Joseph Winsor. The second goal spurred Crediton on and they put the St Martins defence under pressure which ended in a great strike from their centre back to make it 2-1. St Martins managed to re-etablish their two goal lead when a long ball to Connor Batho saw him beat the Crediton defence before dinking the ball over the keeper with a great finish. Again Crediton refused to give up and pushed men forward to give the St Martins defence an uncomfortable time.

They got their second goal when their pacy centre forward broke through the Saints defence and rifled the ball into the bottom corner. Crediton were then on top and kept pushing for the equalizer which came through a long range strike which gave Ryan Watkins no chance in the Saints goal. Rather than let their heads go down St Martins rolled up their sleeves and re-took control of the game with Joseph Winsor jinking past 4 Crediton players before firing the ball into the top corner. In the last minute the referee awarded a penalty to St Martins when the excellent Joseph Winsor was brought down and he picked himself up to score in the top corner to complete the scoring.

Saints joint man of the match - Joseph Winsor & James Walkey

Okehampton Argyle were back to league action this week where they entertained Heavitree at home. Argyle started strongly and took an early lead with a good through ball by Ben Bickle which Ross Voaden ran onto and coolly slotted past the keeper.  Argyle kept the pressure on and soon scored a second goal when a good cross found Tallan Burns who fired the ball into the bottom corner with his right foot. Argyle continued playing good football but was caught by a quick breakaway goal from Heavitree who demonstrated some good football resulting in an excellent goal. Heads didn't go down and Argyle kept going and were later rewarded with their 3^rd goal when a penalty was awarded. Ross took the penalty and hit the bar but scored from the rebound.   

During the second half a midfield battle took place with Daniel Foggerty having an excellent game in the centre winning lots of tackles.            

Argyles new look central defence partnership of Ben Barkwill and Ben Jarvis gave outstanding performances.  Argyles fourth goal came when Tallan Burn's cross was converted by Ben Jarvis.

The fifth and final goal was scored by Argyle close to the end of the game when a tireless performance by Jamie Mallett won a corner which he crossed and Ollie Francis powered the header into the back of the net to round off an excellent debut.

After last weeks cup disappointment Argyle showed the strength and determination to pull off this outstanding performance.

Men of the match were Ben Jarvis and Ben Barkwill.

A very good team performance saw Sidbury Utd become the first team to take points off Stoke Hill and end their 100% league record. It was a very entertaining match with both sides playing some very good attacking football which really was a joy to watch.

Sidbury started very well and had the better of the opening exchanges and created the better chances early on. The starting back four of Daniel Greenland, Aaron Pearse, Ben Logan and Cody Northcott knew they had to be at their best and they did not disappoint against the league leaders.

Scott Redman and George Harwood saw their shots go narrowly wide. Billy Reed had another good game in the centre of midfield and whose vision helped set up the Sidbury opener when the in form Todd Lewendon saw his shot beat the Stoke Hill keeper. Sidbury continued to apply pressure, but a team as good as Stoke Hill are always going to create chances and are a constant threat with their slick football. Midway through the half they equalised with a well taken goal.

Sidbury again took the lead when Todd Lewendon was put through on goal, the keeper did well to stop his first effort but the ball fell kindly for him and he finished well. Harry Wright was a constant nuisance to the opponents defence throughout the match and is such an important part of the team whose partnership with Todd Lewendon is paying dividends.

Stoke Hill equalised early in the second half with a cracking shot high into the top corner of the net. Aaron Pearse almost put the Seagulls back in the lead when his free kick went narrowly wide. Kieran Murphy swapped the left side of midfield to play as a stand in right back for the majority of the second half and did a very good job. Toby Bouganeau also helped bolster Sidbury's defence in the second half. Even when under the cosh Sidbury kept their composure, heads and the ball very well and played their way out of trouble.

Daryl Young pulled off two magnificent saves which earned him the man of the match award, both looked certain goals but he managed to get to both efforts, superbly tipping one over the bar, and the other he was even better save which he turned around the post.

As we know football today is a squad game and youth football is no different, Matt Broom, Kai Fletcher, Connor Long, and George Hathaway all played their part whether or not they got on the pitch of play. Both teams had chances to win the game at the death but maybe a draw was a fair result as neither side really deserved to lose such an entertaining game.

Well done lads, this is the commitment and type of football that is required to win games in this league, you should be proud of yourselves, lets keep it up.

Tiverton Town U12's came out on top to a spirited Central Falcons with early pressure and good work from the yellows which soon paid off with a first half hatrick from Matthew Pengelly, a brace from Jack Rainey and a goal from Euan Howells. 

In the second half Tivvy started off where they left off and with more good work the yellows furthered their lead to 8-0 with Matthew Pengelly getting his fourth and Jack Rainey scoring his hatrick.  With the yellows making a few changes Tivvy lost their shape a bit at the back which allowed a rare scoring opportunity for Central to score a well deserved consolation goal other than that Ryan Clarke and Ben Hearn were left with little to do between the sticks throughout the game. 

All in all it was a good all round accomplished performance from all of the Tivvy side - Ryan Clarke, Ben Hearn, Jack Dickson, Charles Hunter, Euan Howells, Thomas Parkins, William Pinnick, Scott McMillan, Scott Billings, Reece Kingdom, Matthew Pengelly, Jack Rainey and Josh Bruce.

 This was a game of the proverbial two halves, with Lympstone quickly getting into their stride and pressuring the Culm defence in the early exchanges. It worked when Culm failed to get much distance on a goalkick and falling nicely for a visitiong forward he made no mistake.

Culm came straight back and a sliderule pass from Daniel Hayfield put Ross Oaten in and he planted ihs shot into the top left corner for the equaliser. Lympstone started to dominate as Culm had little time on the ball and yet another poor goal kick yielded another goal and then a third from distnace, which bounced up and over Harry Martin's arm and made it 1-3.

On 15', Lympstone added yet another, from a good passage of open play but then Culm started to get ther act together and actually fired in a few shots before the break (1-4). Into the second half and Culm started like they wanted to get back into it and after a Timmy Miles run down the right, Daniel Hayfield responded well with a goal from close in and then doubled his tally minutes later to make it 3-4. While Lympstone did pose a threat, Culm looked more likely but Hayfield's hat-trick eluded him on two occasions when well positioned and Alex Cole was unlucky not to finish off a great cross from the right, at the far post. Into the last minute and the excellent Cameron Wright won a ball, which Ross Oaten passed on to Sam Stockman, who took the ball around the 'keeper and prodded the ball into the corner.

10 seconds later the final whistle went, to end an excellent and well contested game, which was very well refereed by Will Thornton.

Sidbury Utd had a convincing win over Pinhoe that will see them face West Exe Athletic in the next round of the cup. The Seagulls started brightly and immediately were putting the Pinhoe goal under constant pressure forcing the Pinhoe keeper to pull off a couple of fine saves.

Scott Redman opened the scoring for Sidbury when his shot from just inside the box found the bottom corner of the net. Kieran Murphy added a second after a fine solo run down the left before beating the keeper with a low left footed drive at the near post. It was soon 3-0 after some very neat footwork inside the box saw Harry Wright beat three tackles before slipping the ball cooly past the keeper.

Pinhoe pulled a goal back, before Todd Lewendon latched onto a great throughball, beat his defender and then totally flummoxed the Pinhoe keeper with a superb dummy before putting the ball into an empty net. A delightful finish to watch. George Harwood had a great half and was involved in everything on the right side of the pitch and did a fine job as a stand in left back in the second half.

Sidbury were without usual keeper Daryl Young, so Toby Bouganeau and Cody Northcott bravely volunteered and had a half each between the sticks. Aaron Pearse was immense throughout, not only at the back but all over the pitch. Ben Logan was also having a blinding game at right back until he had to come off with an injury. Tackle of the match has to go to Scott Redman whose solid sliding tackle not only saw him get up with the ball at his feet but then set up another Sidbury attack almost resulting in a goal.

Daniel Greenland was his usual solid no nonsense self in the Sidbury defence but Pinhoe pulled another goal back early in the second half to make the score 4-2. Toby Bouganeau set up Kai Fletcher who finished well to restore the Claret and Blues three goal lead. Billy Reed added a sixth with another well taken goal. Pinhoe scored again as Sidbury seemed to take their foot off the pedal for a while.

Matt Broom had a shot which the keeper managed to get his fingers too, the ball looked like it may still go in, but the alert Kai Fletcher reacted first and got the touch which made sure it did, so with the score now at 7-3 came the goal which caused much delight for the Sidbury players and parents when still suffering from injury Connor Long came on with just two minutes to play and with Sidbury about to take a corner, the ball was headed clear but straight to Connor who smashed the ball home with his first touch of the ball.

Saints progressed into the 2nd round thanks in the main to a commanding performance in the last 15 minutes.

Saints took the lead in the 5th minute when a James Eginton shot was deflected in. The remainder of the first half was devoid of clear cut opportunities for either side until Heavitree equalised 4 minutes before halftime.

When Heavitree took the lead after 47 minutes with a fine finish, it appeared that the visitors would progress into the next round, as they started to dominate play. Saints were indebted to keeper Liam Parish for keeping them in the match,as he pulled off an outstanding save tipping the ball onto the crossbar.

Then with 15 minutes remaining a tactical change and the introduction of Josh Lambert turned the game on its head. On 56 minutes a pass from Josh Hill sent Toby Parker away and his angled drive flew in off the far post, and 5 minutes later a James Eginton through ball saw Toby beat the advancing Heavitree keeper to give Saints the lead.After 64 minutes Toby Parker was upended just outside the Heavitree penalty box and James Eginton stepped up to strike home the resulting freekick. In the final minute Ben Sharpe earned another freekick on the opposite side , once again just outside the penalty box and  again James Eginton stepped up to complete the scoring with another fine strike.  

Heavitree could count themselves unfortunate to be on the end of the final scoreline and Saints wish them all the best in the Plate competition where they will prove formidable opposition.

A cracking game of football played by both teams,the score was 4,4 after normal time with some great goals scored by both teams,the Stokes scorers were Ryan Wallis 2 and Ethan Chalk 2,

We then went into extra time and still the teams couldn t be split with a goal coming first by Ryan Wallis followed by a Lympstone goal,so it had to be decided by the dreaded penilties of which Stoke Hill Spurs progressed onto the second round,

Well done to both teams for a memoriable game of football and also well done to Referee Jason Hawkins who equally had agood game.

 First round of the cup saw the Heavies travel to league 1 opponents Crediton.

Good early flowing football from the away side gave the Heavies the start they were after. A good response was shown by the Saints who pushed forward midway through the first half getting their rewards via an own goal. The Heavies kept playing some great passing football and goals either side of half time from the Heavies MoM  Jordan Harris saw the away side take a deserved lead.

The Saints were never down and again came back strong, netting an equalizer with a quick counter-attacking play down the Heavies left side. The Saints were on the march and finished the game as the sronger side netting a further 3 times, most memorably the 2 late free kicks.

Well played Crediton all the best for the next round.

St Martins travelled to Feniton to contest the 1st round cup match and came away with a convincing win.

St Martins goals were scored by Joseph Winsor (4), Connor Batho (3), Ben Broome (2), Josh Lake (2), Henry Ruane, Dean Billingsley and James Horrell.

Despite the scoreline Feniton must be congratulated with the way that they approached the game and kept trying until the end which saw them score a deserved consolation goal with a long range strike.

Culm travelled to Broadclyst and came away with a good win and some very good football. McCaulay Broome grabbed the first after a slide-rule pass from daniel Hayfield. Ross Oaten then got his first (of 4) before Ben Tucker rifled home the goal of the match from a corner.

Broadclyst pulled one back before the break to make it 3-1 to Culm but then Hayfield restored the 3 goal advantage from the penalty spot after Broome was tripped 6 yards out. Broome and Oaten completed trhe scoring in a good all-round display, although Broadclyst did get the last goal with a good strike from distance, high into the net. Good performances from Cameron Wright, Josh Hart and Ashley Grant.

After a slow start to the season, Culm picked up their first points of the campaign at Pinhoe. The hosts were quick out of the traps and Culm's defence had to work hard to contain the early threat but gradually they got into the game.

A Timmy Miles corner from the right was headed at the near post into Pinhoe's net and shortly afterwards, Josh Crook's cool finish made it 2-0. Rory Thomas added a third when he followed up after a Ross Oaten shot was parried into his path by the home 'keeper. Then Pinhoe pulled one back, as they threatened they might, before Macaulay Broome added a fourth before the break. 

Pinhoe weren't finished and just after the restart, they grabbed a second from a corner but thereafter, Culm were free running and a Ross Oaten hat-trick put the game beyond doubt, with Hayfiele getting another.

Harry Jee had an excellent debut in goal, while Cameron Wright, Ben Tucker, Josh Hart and Ashley Grant were in good form. Debut boys, Will Horne and James Brown also played well.

Always a tough fixture away to a good St Martins side, Tivvy started the brighter in the opening minutes, but some sloppy play from Tivvy let in St Martins to grab an early lead.  The yellows did not let their heads drop and were determined to get back into the game and after 5 minutes Scott Billings was brought down deep into St Martins half and was awarded the free kick which was well driven in by Jack Dickson to force an own goal to level the scoring 1-1. 

After good exchanges from both sides Jack Rainey went on an excellent run with the ball from his own half down the right hand side to get in behind the defence to score past the St Martins goalkeeper to give Tivvy a 2-1 lead. 

With Jack Dickson and Euan Howells having excellent games at the back and Reece Kingdom and Scott McMillan in central midfield putting in some excellent challenges winning the ball for more forward runs, this time into St Martins final third down the left hand side for Scott Billings to cut in side and shoot to put the yellows a well deserved 3-1 up at half time.

 In the second half Tivvy started the game where they left off in the first half putting the hosts on the back foot with more pressure in and around the box which paid off with William Pinnick striking home Tivvy's 4^th. 

Although Tivvy were 4-1 up St Martins were never that far out of the game and were always focused on trying to get back in the game, St Martins played in a good cross from the left handside for an excellent looping header to give Ryan Clarke no chance in goal to make it 4-2.  With 10 minutes remaining further chances came from Tivvy with some excellent football, the hard working Josh Bruce threaded the ball to Jack Rainey to strike home for his brace to wrap the game up 5-2. 

Strong performances from Scott McMillan, Jack Rainey, Reece Kingdom, Scott Billings, Jack Dickson and Euan Howells, and also playing well in this good team performance Ryan Clarke, Thomas Parkins, Calem Curren, William Pinnick, Matthew Pengelly, Charles Hunter, Josh Bruce and Harry Burd.

Crediton 2 Stoke Hill Spurs 3

Well done to both teams for a very well contested game of football matched by a very good neutral Referee who allowed the game to flow at all times.

Stokes goal scorers were Ethan Chalk,James Chudley who worked tirelessly up and down the left flank and a cracking header from defender Jack Saunders from a very well delivered corner from Ryan Wallis.Ben Spragg had a good game in defence.

Okehampton travelled to Lympstone with thoughts of a close match on their minds. 

They came out from the start with a fighting spirit and immediately took control of the game. 
Within the first 5 minutes, there was a surge up in to the Lympstone half and Ross Voaden had time to pick his spot and place the ball in the back of the net.  Okehampton followed this with another attack on goal, but this time the keeper saved a shot from Ross. 

The next goal came from a very cool Ben Barkwill who took his time in lining it up and shot past the goalkeeper.  Ross made a great pass to Ben Bickle which came off a Lympstone player to take the score to 3-0.

The strong defence of Liam Alford, Ben Jarvis, Tallan Burns and Ryan Gross kept Lympstone out of the Okehampton half and Okehampton's dominance carried on as Ben Bickle took another great shot which the goalie got a hand to but Rhys Palmer was quick to pick up the rebound and slammed it home.

Lympstone took up the ball and shot past Okehampton's goalie which was just out of his reach.  This didn't deter Okehampton at all and they replied with Jamie Mallett getting a cross in to Ben Bickle's feet who finally got himself on the score sheet with a great goal.  Ben then went on to return the favour and some good play up the pitch saw Ben play a great pass to Jamie who struck it past the Lympstone goalkeeper.

Aaron Dearing, in goal, was kept busy for a while and made a couple of great saves as Lympstone had a chance on goal.

Okehampton were disappointed at being disallowed a goal that came from some great team play when they got it up the field to Ben Bickle, who the got the ball around several Lympstone players with a final pass to Charlie Goldsworthy who knocked it in.  Ben Bickle was rewarded for his efforts though by scoring the next goal with a superb shot from the wing which went right across front of goal to curl in to the side netting.

Okehampton's final goal came when Ryan Gross made a great pass in to Jack Davey, who showed some great play and took his time to get it in the back of the net, scoring a goal on his debut for the team.

This really was a good disciplined performance from Okehampton and they displayed excellent teamwork and came away deserved winners.

Okehampton's Man of the Match: Ben Bickle

Sidbury Utd got back to winning ways with this hard fought victory away to Culm Utd, a match where both teams gave their all and contributed greatly to a very entertaining game.

Sporting their new home strip Sidbury started brightly and created some early chances, much of which were being created by the Sidbury midfielders. Scott Redman tirelessly hassled in the middle of the pitch. It was Harry Wright who eventually gave the Seagulls a deserved lead with a great shot midway through the half.

There was some great tackles being made by the Sidbury defence, Ben Logan, Daniel Greenland, Aaron Pearse and Connor Long battled for everything and all turned in good performances. Sidbury did not have it all their own way not by a long chalk, Culm are a good side and put in a very good account of themselves.

Sidbury began the second half like they had started the first, but it was Culm who levelled the scores when keeper Daryl Young was lobbed and could only manage to get one hand to the ball. Sidbury continued to put Culm under pressure, when their keeper managed to tip Harry Wrights shot onto the bar, and a Todd Lewendon shot hit the inside of the post, it seemed as though it was going to be another one of those days. Man of the Match Billy Reed put Sidbury back in front with a low driven shot, but that lead was short lived when Culm were awarded and converted a penalty.

Kai Fletcher done well on the left and George Harwood is proving to be an asset on the right side of midfield. Move of the match was down the left when Cody Northcott beat his marker and passed the ball to Kieran Murphy who turned his defender and cut the ball back to Matt Broom who's shot narrowly went wide. With just eight minutes left on the clock Billy Reed struck again to give Sidbury a 2-3 lead and a much needed, and deserved victory.

We wish Connor Long, a speedy recovery, from his injury.

Crediton Saints 1 - 3  Okehampton Argyle  

In a local derby match Okehampton started very strongly playing good attractive football and midway through the first half deservedly took the lead when Ross Voaden lobbed the keeper from the edge of the area.

The centre midfield partnership of Ben Barkwill and Rhys Palmer were controlling the game with their great tackling and ball distribution.

Okehampton expanded their lead when a free kick was awarded 10 yards out of the area. A great free kick taken by Ross Voaden was brilliantly saved by the saints keeper but Daniel Foggerty was alert and scored from the rebound for his debut goal.

A brief lapse in concentration allowed a quick breakaway from saints ending with a fine shot which was superbly saved by Argyle keeper Aaron Dearing but a Saints player was quickest to the loose ball and scored.

Saints upped their game at this point and put Okehampton under pressure until half time.

The 2^nd half was evenly fought with chances at both ends, good football played by both teams made this a really entertaining game.

Okehampton scored again when a great run down the left wing by Tallan Burns and a fine cross enabled Charlie Goldsworthy to score his first goal for the club.

Okes defence held firm with outstanding performances from Liam Alford and Daniel Foggerty and a good solid performance from Goalie Aaron Dearing who commanded his area well throughout the game.

This was a great game of football played in a fantastic spirit by both teams.

Men of the match were Liam Alford and Daniel Foggerty.

Stoke Hill found it hard to break down the wasps but stil found themselves going in at half time 3 . 1 up , the wasps came back a little after the break, but the Stoke found another gear 10 minutes from the end and finished the game off, scorers were a magnificent 4 from Ryan Wallis, a well taken goal from defender Lewis Fraser , Jordan Major again with a well placed goal and Ethan Chalk with a well taken penalty after the first one was disallowed, he still calmly steppd up and placed it into the left hand side of the goal.

Always a close encounter in the past against Crediton Saints, Tivvy turned in an excellent 5 star display as they made it 5 wins on the spin with a Jack Rainey double and a single from Scott Billlings to round off an impressive first half lead.  Jack Rainey kicked things off after 9 minutes with a through ball from Scott McMillan shooting across goal high into the top left corner leaving Creditons keeper with no chance.  After 15 minutes with excellent work from midfield Scott Billings picked the ball up on the edge of the box to drill home low into the corner of the goal to put the yellows 2-0 up, Rainey got his second on 27 minutes with a left foot strike to give Tivvy a commanding 3-0 lead at half time.  Although Crediton passed threat themselves the defensive line of Jack Dickson, Ross Holmes and Euan Howells and goalkeeper Ryan Clarke stood strong throughout the half.

 In the second half Crediton having their best spell came back into the game, and scored a well deserved consolation goal which seemed to spur Tivvy on in this well contested game, and after further advances with good play in and around Crediton's penalty box further goals came from William Pinnick who rifled home from 5 yards and a brucey bonus from Josh Bruce's glancing header to make it 5-1.  The back line were outstanding throughout the game, with Ben Hearn coming on in goal in the second half to make a couple of fine saves, Scott McMillan and Thomas Parkins working their socks off along with the rest of the midfield of William Pinnick, Josh Bruce, Scott Billings, Reece Kingdom and Harry Burd and Jack Rainey working well up front with Matthew Pengelly who was unlucky himself not to get on the score sheet with a couple of efforts.

Heavitree V's Sidbury Utd

Heavies stayed in bed A very poor game was played at the Heavies new Friends Provident pitch, with a lack-luster performance the home side managed to come away with the win. A very scrappy 1st half with very limited chances for both sides eventually saw Brandon Curtis tap home the only goal of the game after a goal mouth scramble in Utd's area.

The 2nd half was equally unimpressive as the Harriers were unable to play anything remotely resembling "the beautiful game". Utd push for the equalizer, wave upon wave of high pressure saw the away side make plenty of opportunities which they failed to take, thanks mainly to a solitary display by the Heavies MOM Tapuwa Mukonoweshuro (aka "T"), who seemed to be at the heart of every thing Sidbury threw at them.

Desperate and maybe deservedly Utd put all their big players up top and played the long ball to try and get the draw. But with "T" in this kind of form not many were getting through, even when a few 1 on 1's with the keeper Utd failed again shooting straight at George Wanall. I don't think this was day light robbery, more like one side who took their chance and another who didn't take theirs.

The beginning of the season saw the Heavies take two "hammering's" whilst playing a bit of football, today we didn't but it's nice to know that we can play bad and still manage to win.

It took a while for the home side to get started as the culm side held strong only for Stoke Hill to go in 1-0 at half time. It must have been something manager Neil Major said at half time as the stoke boys came out all guns blazing with goals coming from hatrick hero Ryan Wallis ,a fine brace from Jordan Major and and a goal piece from Jake Tillet,Ethan Chalk, Al-Muntasar Albusaidi and an own from a culm player.

A few players were rested towards the end , which allowed Culm to go away with a consolation goal. Defenders Liam Staddon and Jack Saunders were solid at the back also Tarji Jones in midfield played well with some great through balls to the forwards.

Culm's first half performance was a big improvement on their last outing and the team may have been slightly unfortunate to go in at the break 1-0 down as there were decent chances at both ends.

The second half was a complete collapse after 2 quickfire goals put Stoke in the ascendancy. Culm heads were down and later, when it became a question of pride, some spirit was shown, tackles went in and near the end, a goal clawed back.

Well done Stoke, the result obviously meant alot to you. Well played to Harry Martin, Ben Tucker, Josh Hart, Ashley Grant and Timmy Miles.

 The scoreline in this game did not tell the true story of the performance that Pinhoe produced in this match. Whilst St Martins started the game very strongly, pegging Pinhoe into their own half, some superb defending and goalkeeping kept the score blank until Myles James produced a great strike from outside the area to make it 1 nil to St Martins.

Whilst the Saints thought that this would be the start of a comfortable match the opposite happened when Pinhoe started to come into the game and produced an excellent attack down the left which resulted in a great cross and a good finish at the far post. The 1-1 scoreline remained until half-time.

The start of the 2nd half was an even contest and both team showed skilful play but it was Pinhoe who went ahead when a long cross was misjudged by the Saints keeper. With 15 minutes left St Martins brought on Dean Billingsley, who was returning after 2 broken arms within the past 4 months, and this proved a masterstroke as he scored with his first touch firing a 20 yard strike into the bottom corner to make it 2-2.

A few minutes later a great passing move from the Saints resulted in Billingsley crossing the ball for Myles James to volley home to make it 3-2. This seemed to knock the stuffing out of Pinhoe which allowed St Martins to push for more goals and Joseph Winsor took control of the game to help himself to an impressive hat-trick. The final goal of the game involved a great pass from Winsor to put Myles James through who drew the keeper before confidently chipping him to make it seven.

Saints hit double figures for the second game in a row,this time against a Pinhoe side who nevertheless always looked useful as an attacking force.

A Josh Hill through ball allowed Kieran Vinnicombe to send an angled drive into the bottom corner of the net as Saints took the lead after 2 minutes. 5 minutes later it was 2-0 when Kieran Vinnicombe  crossed for Toby Parker to bundle the ball home from close range despite the best efforts of the Pinhoe keeper.

Another Josh Hill through ball allowed Toby Parker to fire home from 20 yards out via the post to make it 3-0 after 11 minutes. Saints who were minus 3 players due to sickness, injury and unavailability saw striker James Eginton start in goal, and he could do nothing to stop Pinhoe pulling a goal back after 18 minutes. Pinhoe then put the Saints goal under sustained pressure but with Dan Tucker and Jamie Mackenzie resolute in defence it was another defender who increased Saints lead after 27 minutes. Alex Rodd moved forward to send in a thunderous drive from 25 yards out to nestle into the bottom corner of the net.

Saints started the second half as they finished the first when Toby Parker sent Sam Ward away down the right for the midfielder to finish with a fine cross shot after only 20 seconds. A minute later another Toby Parker through ball allowed Ben Sharpe to finish from just inside the penalty box. However Pinhoe struck back minutes later to make the scoreline 6-2. Martin Hodge who had given a hardworking performance for Saints up front  then made way for Eoin Luxmoore.

A lovely back to front move gave Saints their 7th after 40 minutes. Keeper James Eginton passed the ball out to Alex Rodd whose through ball sent Toby Parker away , his shot was then parried by the Pinhoe keeper allowing Ben Sharpe a simple tap in. After 44 minutes Kiaran Vinnicombe cross was turned into his own goal by a Pinhoe defender. With 10 minutes remaining Jamie Mackenzie replaced James Eginton in goal with the hard working Cory Eaton moving into defence, and with 3 minutes to go, a James Eginton cross was turned home by another Pinhoe defender for another own goal.

In the final minute Ben Sharpe crossed for Toby Parker to complete his hat-rick from close range.  

Tivvy U12's visited West Hill for a late kick off of 11.45, on a sloping pitch and blustery wind throughout, it was not the best of games to watch as difficult conditions proved difficult to overcome. 

Generally Tiverton controlled matters and finished off worthy 3-1 winners with the first goal coming from good work from the midfield to the forward line for Jack Rainey to get in behind West Hills defence to neatly set up Matthew Pengelly for the yellows to lead 1-0 at half time.  In the second half within 10 minutes Tivvy extended their lead with an identical goal as the first one with Jack Rainey again playing in Matthew Pengelly to grab his brace. 

Midway through the second half West Hill were looking to come into the game a bit more and was given a dubious free kick in which was well converted into the back of the net, giving goalkeeper Ryan Clarke no chance. 

Shortly after Tivvy killed the game off, and with some good attacking football Scott McMillan was felled on the edge of the box, a free kick was awarded for Jack Dickson to step up and strike into the back of the net to make it 3-1 in a well contested game by both sides.

 A hard fought game between the two sides saw the Harriers come out on top to take the points away from the Recreation Ground. Not even a missed 1st half pen could stop the Heavies continuing their refound form.

Joe Vittles slotting home from the edge of the box mid way through the 2nd half was enough to secure the victory. Charlie Clewlow with a dazzling display was voted MOM, but the whole round 2nd half performance stood strong against the advancing Exminster side, a superb late save by goalkeeper George Wanell ensured the win for the Heavies.

Saints gained an impressive result against a hardworking Westhill side, who despite the scoreline, never gave up.

Saints keeper Liam Parish pulled off a smart save inside the opening 5 minutes to stop the visitors taking the lead . However the deadlock was broken after 8 minutes when Toby Parker crossed for Sam Ward to finish from close range. Despite plenty of pressure the Westhill defence held firm until the 23rd minute, when a Kieran Vinnicombe through ball was latched onto by Ben Sharpe who finished with a low drive for his first competitive goal for the club.

Two goals in 3 minutes before half time gave the Saints a 4-0 interval lead, when first a pass from Sam Ward sent Kieran Vinnicombe clear to finish with a fine angled drive and then a Toby Parker pass allowed Ben Sharpe to net into the bottom corner.Saints started the second half as they ended the first with a Sam Ward pass giving Toby Parker his first goal of the match with a shot in the opening minute.

With Josh Hill and Corey Eaton dominating the midfield with their excellent passing and Alex Rodd and Jamie Mackenzie resolute in defence, Saints continued to play some excellent football.James Eginton set up Toby Parker for his 2nd before a Sam Ward cross allowed Dan Tucker to power home a fine header.After 45 minutes an excellent individual effort from Kieran Vinnicombe saw the midfielder chip the ball home from the edge of the box.A minute later Toby Parker completed his first competitve hat trick for the team with a 15 yard drive that flew in off the far post.Eoin Luxmoore and Josh Lambert both put in hardworking contributions as they entered the action.

With 10 minutes remaining a Kieran Vinnicombe pass set up James Eginton to shoot home. The final goal came after 56 minutes when Martin Hodge , who was enjoying a rare cameo role up front, was fouled in the box and James Eginton stepped up to slot home the spot kick.

Stoke Hill Spurs 4 St Martins 2 Stoke put in a gritty performance and were 2-0 up by half time,goals came from Ryan Wallis 2, Jake Tillett 1, Jimmy Balkwill 1.

It was Jimmy s first start to the season as he has been out injured so well done.Ben Spragg at right back had a good game as did Jordan Major at centre back the game ended 4-2.

Culm's very first game of the season couldn't have been any tougher than at home to current age group champions, Tiv Town. After a nervous start by the hosts and one or two good openings for Town, Culm began to find space and openings down both Town flanks and with the Town defence stretched took the lead on 16'.

Having broken into the box on the leftmoments before, Daniel Hayfield started a move down the right which released McCaulay Broome into the area and Macca's measured shot from 16 yards gave the hosts the lead. Town came back and, having put a penalty wide, they equalised on 22'from 5 yards, following a corner.

After the break, Town took the lead with a low shot into the far corner from 15 yards and were good value for two more goals later. Earlier in the half, Culm's Ben Tucker, was unfortunate to see his shot glance off the Town bar and Ross Oaten had two good efforts narrowly off target, too. Harry Martin made excellent saves for Culm, while Josh Hart was resilient and efficient at centrehalf.

Pinhoe Panthers 0 Heavitree Harriers 8

A good response was shown by a rejuvenated Heavitree side following two heavy defeats.

Positive instructions from the coaches before the game helped to regain confidence to allow the Harriers to play football resembling last seasons effort. Jordan Harris scored the opening goal early in the 1st half, Man Of The Match Brandan Curtis got his 1st goal for the club to make it 0-2 at half time.

Ashley Matthews goal straight from kick off put pay to any hope of a come back by the Panthers, goals from Joe Wilson, Joe Vittles(2) and Jordan Harris scoring a further 2 more for awell deserved hat-trick.

Only a broken collar bone for our goalkeeper Toby Hannam took the shine off the match. Get Well Soon Toby.

Tiverton Town were away in a local derby against Culm United and did not disappoint controlling the game from start to finish and running out comfortable 4-1 winners.  With early chances squandered Tivvy were very unlucky to find themselves a goal behind against the run of play with a good strike from Culm United, leaving goalkeeper Ryan Clarke with no chance.  Tivvy picked themselves up and with more good football and attacking play a much needed goal followed on the stroke of half time leaving Scott Billings to level the game 1-1. 

In the second half with a few early exchanges Ryan Clarke pulled off an excellent point blank save, other than that Tivvy continued to dominate and turned their possession into further well worked goals with Scott Billings grabbing his brace and 2 further strikes from Reece Kingdom and William Pinnick.  Tivvys defence of Ross Holmes, Jack Dickson and Charles Hunter stood strong all game and the outstanding midfield  were always in charge with the forward line working tirelessly to round off  a very strong all round performance, well done boys.  (Ryan Clarke, Ben Hearn, Ross Holmes, Charles Hunter, Jack Dickson, Euan Howells, Reece Kingdom, Josh Bruce, William Pinnick, Matthew Pengelly, Scott Billings, Scott McMillan, Jack Rainey and Harry Burd).

A slightly depleted Sidbury team were beaten by a very good Okehampton side in this entertaining encounter.

The Seagulls had the better of the earlier exchanges but could not quite make that all important breakthrough. Okehampton then began to come more and more into the game and created several chances of their own. The Sidbury defence of Ben Logan, Connor Long, Aaron Pearse and Toby Bouganeau were coping very well until a injury to left back Connor Long forced the already bare bones Seagulls outfit into a reshuffle.

Okehampton took full advantage of this and took the lead during this transformation and went into the half time break 1-0 to the good. Early in the second half Okehampton made it 2-0 with a very well taken goal. However the Sidbury boys heads did not drop and almost from the restart Billy Penwarden played the ball through to Todd Lewendon who beat his defender and finished with his usual deadliness.

Sidbury then began to press for an equaliser and came close on a couple of occasions, the best of these came from a Billy Reed corner which was flicked on, only for the Okehampton keeper to make a great save on his own goal line. Harry Wright and Todd Lewendon battled all game up front for Sidbury with little reward, Kieran Murphy who switched from midfield into a makeshift left back done very well. Midfielders Georgie Hathaway and Kai Fletcher worked tirelessly and contributed much to the game.

Nonetheless with Sidbury pushing forward in search of a goal they were always left open to the counter attack, and indeed they were punished by a Okehampton break and a great shot from outside the box which left keeper Daryl Young no chance. Usamah Elmaghady came on for his league debut. United continued to go forward and were awarded a penalty when Harry Wright was bought down in the box, Toby Bouganeau cooly smashed the ball into the left corner to make it 3-2. Sidbury continued to press but time eventually run out on them. With all things considered, the boys battled bravely and gave their all but on the day were beaten by a very well organised Okehampton side.

This was going to be Okehampton's toughest game so far this season in very hot conditions. Sidbury had a long unbeaten run to retain but Okehampton were going to put up a good fight to put a stop to this.

Okehampton looked strong from the beginning and made several advances but couldn't get it on target. Benjamin Rowe was on the wing and passed it across the goal and Jamie Mallet came from nowhere to hit it in the back of the net giving Okehampton the lead.  They then surged forward again with two successive attacks on goal but the Sidbury goalkeeper did some great work and kept the score at 1-0 at half time.

Okehampton knew they had to keep the pressure on and started the second half strongly. Ben Bickle made a great pass to Ross Voaden who shot and placed it right over the goalie's head. Okehampton let it slip for a moment and Sidbury charged right up the pitch and got a goal past the Okehampton goalkeeper, Aaron Dearing.

The defence of Ben Barkwill, Ben Jarvis, Ryan Gross and Liam Alford were on form and kept the goalkeeper from having much of the ball throughout the game. Okehampton played some good team moves and Tallan Burns had a great game with superb marking on his players.  Ross Voaden scored his second goal with a really powerful shot from out of the area that went right in the back of the net.  Okehampton's team effort was brilliant and Rhys Palmer played through the second half carrying an injury but his determination never let him give up, even though you could see he was struggling.

Okehampton's only setback was when they gave away a penalty close to the final whistle and Sidbury scored leaving the score at 3-2. A deserved win for Okehampton.

Okehampton's men of match:Ross Voaden & Tallan Burns

Tiverton Town Under 12's  7  -  1 Heavitree Harriers

Tivvy U12's continued their good start to the season, cruising to a 7-1 win at home to Heavitree Harriers.  It took 20 minutes to find the break through with good work in midfield and a good through ball from Reece Kingdom to allow Jack Rainey to get in behind Heavitree's defence and beat the goal keeper to set Tivvy on their way, within 5 minutes another good through ball from Reece Kingdom split the defence with a well timed run from Jack Rainey to calmly beat the keeper to make it 2-0.  Just before the break Tivvy got their 3^rd goal through Matthew Pengelly linking up well  with Ross Holmes, Thomas Parkins, Scott McMillan and William Pinnick.

Early in the second half Tivvy were well on top and through more good work going forward it was Jack Dickson who put Tivvy 4-0 up.  Tivvy then rang several changes and a rare substitution for Ryan Clarke allowed him to finish the game outfield and for Ben Hearn to make his debut in goal.  Although the yellows were still dominating possession, Heavitree never gave up and got forward themselves and fired home a well deserved consolation goal.  Tivvy soon got back in their stride with good work through Josh Bruce and Thomas Parkins to find Scott Billings on the left hand side of midfield to create and score with an excellent finish to make it 5-0, 2 further goals were added by Jack Dickson and Matthew Pengelly to complete the scoring.  Strong performances from Ross Holmes and Thomas Parkins with the whole team playing well Jack Rainey, Scott McMillan, William Pinnick, Scott Billings, Euan Howells, Josh Bruce, Reece Kingdom, Matthew Pengelly, Charles Hunter, Jack Dickson, Harry Burd, Ryan Clarke and Ben Hearn.

Sidbury Utd put in a massive performance against a very strong and well organised Crediton side, this was a very entertaining game to watch with both teams playing some fantastic football.

Sidbury had a lot of the possession in the first half but were finding it difficult to break down a very good Crediton defence, however they did come close to opening the scoring on a few occasions when Todd Lewendon, Ben Logan and a Toby Bouganeau header all tested the keeper. The "Seagulls" defence of Ben Logan, Aaron Pearse, Connor Long and Daniel Greenland were excellent and all played a massive part in the game.

The midfielders battled well and linked well with the forwards. However it was Crediton that very nearly went into the break with the lead, but keeper Daryl Young was relieved when their shot came back off the inside of the post and was cleared by Connor Long. Early in the second half saw the Crediton keeper pull off some good saves as Kieran Murphy and Harry Wright went close.

However it was Crediton who opened the scoring after breaking down the left and culminated with a Crediton player side footing the ball into the Sidbury net from close range. Instead of letting their heads drop, this seemed to make the Sidbury players more determined. They all showed great spirit and were justly rewarded when Man of the Match, Harry Wright chased in, what looked like a lost cause but the keeper seemed to panic and no matter how fortunate Wright knocked the ball passed the keeper, to give the Seagulls a deserved equaliser.

Typical of the way Wright played, he just did not give up on anything and battled for everything all game, as did Georgie Hathaway on the right of midfield. It was not long before the Sidbury players were celebrating again after Scott Redman put them into the lead after some prolonged pressure in and around the Crediton area, Redman's shot beat the keeper.

Second half subs Kai Fletcher and Cody Northcott had a great say in matters in the last ten minutes. Fletcher made some great runs down the left, winning numerous corners and keeping the pressure on. It was from one of these corners that the ball came out to Cody Northcott who took one touch to put the ball onto his left foot and let rip from just outside the box, leaving the keeper no chance and giving Sidbury a 1-3 lead. The boys showed a lot of guts and great belief in each other to come from behind and win this game.

Sidbury Utd put in a massive performance against a very strong and well organised Crediton side, this was a very entertaining game to watch with both teams playing some fantastic football.

Sidbury had a lot of the possession in the first half but were finding it difficult to break down a very good Crediton defence, however they did come close to opening the scoring on a few occasions when Todd Lewendon, Ben Logan and a Toby Bouganeau header all tested the keeper.

The "Seagulls" defence of Ben Logan, Aaron Pearse, Connor Long and Daniel Greenland were excellent and all played a massive part in the game. The midfielders battled well and linked well with the forwards. However it was Crediton that very nearly went into the break with the lead, but keeper Daryl Young was relieved when their shot came back off the inside of the post and was cleared by Connor Long.

Early in the second half saw the Crediton keeper pull off some good saves as Kieran Murphy and Harry Wright went close. However it was Crediton who opened the scoring after breaking down the left and culminated with a Crediton player side footing the ball into the Sidbury net from close range.

Instead of letting their heads drop, this seemed to make the Sidbury players more determined. They all showed great spirit and were justly rewarded when Man of the Match, Harry Wright chased in, what looked like a lost cause but the keeper seemed to panic and no matter how fortunate Wright knocked the ball passed the keeper, to give the Seagulls a deserved equaliser. Typical of the way Wright played, he just did not give up on anything and battled for everything all game, as did Georgie Hathaway on the right of midfield.

It was not long before the Sidbury players were celebrating again after Scott Redman put them into the lead after some prolonged pressure in and around the Crediton area, Redman's shot beat the keeper. Second half subs Kai Fletcher and Cody Northcott had a great say in matters in the last ten minutes. Fletcher made some great runs down the left, winning numerous corners and keeping the pressure on.

It was from one of these corners that the ball came out to Cody Northcott who took one touch to put the ball onto his left foot and let rip from just outside the box, leaving the keeper no chance and giving Sidbury a 1-3 lead. The boys showed a lot of guts and great belief in each other to come from behind and win this game.

Well done lads.

Exmouth 0 stoke hill spurs 3 stoke were 2-0 up by half time but it was in the second half when stoke really came alive and played some good football,new signings Jack Saunders and Ethan Chalk were outstanding as was Ryan Wallis who scored a fine brace even though he was unwell.

Jake Tillett played well and was rewarded with a superb goal lobbing the keeper, but the game was won in midfield by a hardworking performance by Jordan Major and Macaulay Burge.Stokes defenders Liam Staddon and Lewis Fraser were steady and also had good second halfs.

A fine start to the season with goals aplenty, Ryan Wallis Capped a fine game with a hatrick,Tarji Jones,james Chudley,Jake Tillett and a fine deubt from Jack Saunders all got 1 a piece.

Tiverton Town deservedly earned all three points at home to Exmouth Town in an entertaining game. With the visitors taking the lead 7 minutes into the first half, Tivvy hit back with a great strike from Jack Dickson and although Tivvy were having a lot of possession Exmouth regained the lead again but that lead was short lived when the ball dropped to Jack Rainey through some good midfield play turned his defender and struck high into the top corner to level 2-2.

In the second half Tiverton picked up the pace and were dominating the game playing some good pass and move football with Josh Bruce linking up well with William Pinnick, Thomas Parkins and Matthew Pengelly to send a low drive into the bottom right hand corner to give the yellows a 3-2 lead, the game was later wrapped up with good work through Harry Burd to Scott McMillan and Jack Rainey to round 3 defenders and the keeper to round off a comfortable 4-2 victory.

Strong performances from Scott McMillan, Jack Rainey, William Pinnick and Reece Kingdom and playing well Ryan Clarke, Matthew Pengelly, Thomas Parkins, Scott Billings, Josh Bruce, Euan Howells, Jack Dickson, Harry Burd, Charles Hunter and Ross Holmes.

Sidbury Utd U12's got their season off to a winning start with a home victory over Pinhoe. Sidbury started well and soon began to dominate the game with their attacking football.

Cody Northcott saw his shot go narrowly wide and Ben Logan had a shot go just over the bar. Pinhoe were being pinned back in their own half and with United winning a succession of corners it seemed just a matter of time before they scored. Man of the Match Scott Redman split the Pinhoe defence with a delightful through ball which the speedy Todd Lewendon latched onto and cooly finished with a low drive into the far corner.

Sidbury never let up the constant pressure and added to their lead with the move of the game, after a succession of passes United had switched the ball from the left over to the right, Georgie Hathaway and Todd Lewendon played a neat one-two and the ball was put into the box for Billy Penwarden to neatly volley the ball home to give United a deserved 2-0 lead.

Connor Long, Aaron Pearse, Cody Northcott and Ben Logan were strong and confident in the Sidbury defence, keeper Daryl Young was his normal steady self and both Kieran Murphy and Billy Read were putting in strong performances in midfield.

Pinhoe began to create chances and cause some problems for United in the second half, United went looking for a third with Kai Fletcher coming close twice, Billy Read saw his shot hit the underside of the bar, Todd Lewendon done all the hard work only to see his shot go agonisingly wide.

Sidbury finally scored through Kai Fletcher but Pinhoe hit straight back with a strike which left keeper Daryl Young no chance to make it 3-1. Aaron Pearse then launched a rocket of a shot which dipped over the keeper and into the back of the net to restore Sidbury's three goal lead. Substitute Daniel Greenland put in a fine display at the back, but as United seemed to take their foot off the pedal toward the end, Pinhoe pulled another back.

Scott Redman almost made it five but was unlucky to see his shot hit the post, but all in all Sidbury United should be pleased with their all round play, and a 4-2 victory.

An extremely tight and entertaining game saw St Martins return to Exminster with a narrow victory. The Saints started the game very brightly and used their passing ability to press the home side back. This pressure resulted in the Saints being awarded a penalty but the Okehampton keeper made a great save and immediately set an attack going which caught St Martins napping and, after a good save by Ryan Watkins, an Okehampton striker thumped home the rebound.

This raised Okehampton's confidence and they took control of the game and used their technical and organisational skills to impose themselves on the St Martins defence. An attack from St Martins was again saved by the keeper and the counter attack resulted in a great strike from Voaden ,the Okes' No.9, to make it 2-0. This was the half-time score.

The beginning of the 2nd half saw St Martins pressuring the Okehampton goal and eventually a goal mouth scramble saw Joe Winsor make a great turn before he drilled the ball into the bottom corner to make it 2-1. This gave the Saints a lot of confidence and they continued to press for the equalizer which came when Myles James charged down a defensive clearance before he chipped the keeper from fully 20 yards. Both teams then went after the winner which resulted in some great defending from both teams.

The Saints defence of James Horrell, Ben Broome and birthday boy Josh Lake stood firm whilst Harry Skinner and James Walkey drove St Martins forward from midfield. Callum Perry played well up front and Sam Tiltman, Dylan Cummings, Henry Ruane and Nick Grew also had good games. With under 10 minutes left a corner from Harry Skinner was met with a thumping header from Joe Winsor to put the Saints in front for the first time. The last 5 minutes were extremely nervy with several last ditch tackles in the St Martins preventing Okehampton from getting an equalizer.

Ben Jarvis was exceptional in the Okehampton defence and was well supported by a number of his team-mates. St Martins managed to hold on for the win but would like to congratulate Nelson Voaden and his team for their excellent performance and hospitality. They are a welcome addition to the league.