Devon and Exeter division one.

Chagford 1

Sidbury United 3

ONCE again Chagford were to rue the fact they have so many players out for a game which they could have won. The visitors would have settled for a draw after a fine first half from both teams.

With Davis, Wright and de Cruz prominent in midfield, Chagford took the game to their opponents and only lacked the cutting edge of an outright striker so it was some surprise when they went behind. A long, hopeful punt forward, on 16 minutes, skidded off Hutchison's head and dropped for United's striker to slot the ball past Vincent.

The lead lasted just five minutes as Davis was sent down Chagford's right flank, to pull the ball back into the path of Jerome Whatley who stabbed home the equaliser. Chagford continued to create chances with Emanuel having a good game on the left, and the defence seemed to to strengthen as the game progressed. Even so, Vincent had the fortune to see two efforts come off his posts and did well to block another goal-bound shot.

The second half was barely minutes old when Botham was forced to depart with an injury. With only a forward to come on, the influential midfielder Wright had to drop back and Sidbury came back into the match. They regained the lead and polished off the day with a late third.

n Chagford travel to Halwill this Saturday, kick-off 3pm.

Devon and Exeter division six

UAU Exeter 3

Chagford Res 1

THE Reserves travelled to Exeter with a depleted squad. Craig Vincent took the place between the sticks, on the same day his father Duncan played in goal for the Firsts.

UAU grabbed the early intitiative, picking up a scrappy goal in what a was physical encounter. Rob Lethbridge netted an equaliser, his second goal in as many league appearances, but the hosts were to close the half by retaking the lead with a long range shot.

Chagford raised themselves in search of a second half goal but failed to take their chances. Caught by a counter-attack, they were to concede a late third goal that ended their revival. One bright spot was the introduction of another young player with potential, Jai Minett making his competitive debut.