South Devon premier

Chagford 3

Ashburton AFC 2

THOUGH they started brightly, Chagford failed to capitalise on their early play and were almost made to pay the price.

They unveiled two new signings. Darren Prouse and Ricky Wooldridge joined James Williams at the Memorial Ground, bringing a touch of additional quality to the squad.

Prouse partnered Robbie Miller at the front and it soon became clear that here was a willing runner, with skill to boot. Much of Chagford's openings were linked to the off the ball running of the younger man.

The game was barely ten minutes old when Ashburton conceded a free-kick just inside the Chagford half. Botham's presence of mind and a quick free-kick was dropped nicely for Andrew Davis to take the ball on and tuck it home.

Ashburton clawed their way back and made the home defence work hard. Support for the defence was garnered from Emanuel and man of the match Chadwick, although everyone was doing their bit to defend the lead.

It was Robbie Miller who extended the lead. Following Prouse's shot being turned aside, Chadwick's out-swinging corner was met fully on the volley by Miller, the ball rocketing into the top corner and leaving Shorland a spectator.

Either side of the goal, the Moorlanders had their veteran 'keeper, Duncan Vincent, to thank for keeping their advantage - including blocking an effort from Grute, when the Ashburton forward looked certain to score.

The Ashes did have a goal ruled out, the ball having crossed the goal-line prior to the cross, before Dan Steer stole through to hammer the ball in at the near post and pulled a goal back.

After the break Vincent had to react smartly and smother another Ashburton effort. The visitors started to gain the upper hand over the next 30 minutes, with Steer bagging his second and Ashburtons' equaliser.

Chagford fought back. Hutchison had come on for the injured Botham, Wright made way for de Cruz but it was Ricky Wooldridge's debut that ultimately made the difference. Taking a few minutes to settle in, Wooldridge heeded Davis' far post shout, swinging in a good cross for the latter to bag the winner.

This was a deserved and valuable victory following last week's disappointment, that consolidates a mid-table place.

l This Saturday, they entertain second-placed Brixham United. Kick-off at 2.30pm.

South Devon division five

Brixham Villa thirds 1

Chagford Reserves 3

FOLLOWING a scrappy opening, Brixham took control for the best part of the first half and it was a surprise when their guests stole the lead.

Slipping as he went to take a free-kick, Chagford's Simon Ralph was handed a second opportunity because a defender's infringement. This time the player/manager made no mistake, rifling the ball into the top of the net.

For the remainder of the half, not much more happened but for Jon Philpott's header hitting the home crossbar. With a reshuffle, Chagford started to take control after half-time.

Matt Swift, in the visitors' goal, was largely untroubled as his defence shielded him well. Even so, it took some 25 minutes before Chagford put their dominance to good use. Philpott and Chris Woof linked well going forward, the latter firing across goal for the ball to go in-off the far post.

Shortly after, the game was put beyond Villa's grasp. Scarry, Reeves and Wes Gavillet linked well for Gavillett to notch his first goal for the club.

David Bower grabbed a late consolation for the hosts but the points were safely in Chagford's pocket.

l This Saturday the Reserves are away to Newton Abbot '66, kick-off 2.30pm.