South West one

OPMA 3

OKEHAMPTON A travelled to Plymouth for their latest league fixture. OPM’s made an attacking start putting the visitors under pressure.

However, some important blocks from Mark Bingham kept Okehampton in the game. Oke always looked dangerous on the break with the pace of Stuart Jarvis and his powerful crosses causing problems.

The home side took the lead when they latched on to a loose ball at the top of the circle and crashed the ball home off the underside of the bar. Okehampton’s situation was further compounded with an injury to Bingham, who bravely continued as there was no substitute available. Okehampton continued to counter attack effectively and Chris Luxton had a couple of shots saved on the line.

A well worked move from OPMs took them into half-time with a 2-0 advantage.

The home side continued to push forward in the second half but were constantly thwarted by man of the match John Jarvis who made a series of well-timed tackles and important interceptions.

A quickly taken free hit from Jacob Jones found Jaden Read in space and he fired the ball into the opposition circle, where Luxton had his shot saved but put away the rebound to pull a goal back.

Okehampton then had their best period of the game with Luxton, Stuart Jarvis and Bingham all having well struck shots saved.

OPMs were now relying on counter attacks and Oke goalkeeper Ebby Vallance made some terrific saves but was eventually beaten.

With several of last year’s promotion winning side now playing first team hockey this is very much a rebuilding season for Okehampton A but youngsters Jacob Jones, Caleb Bourne, Jaden Read and Tom Hutchins are improving with every match.