South West two

Teign A 0

IN glorious sunshine Okehampton A hosted second placed Teign A in their last league game before the Christmas break. Both sides played attractive, open hockey in a close fought sporting encounter.

Teign had more midfield possession in the first half but the Okehampton back four rarely looked threatened with Tom Hutchings and Alex Osman easily thwarting their attacks. Okehampton always looked dangerous on the break with the pace of winger Stuart Jarvis creating chances for the home side. However, the Teign goalkeeper made some good saves to keep the match tied 0-0 at half-time.

The Okehampton midfield, marshalled by Tim Morgan, gained more control in the second half and put more pressure on the Teign defence. Oke captain Brett Lawson`s move from the wing to centre forward soon proved beneficial when his forceful run and pass gave Jacob Lloyd the opportunity to place his reverse stick sweep into the far corner of the goal to give his side the lead.

Teign responded well and raised their game and some incisive tackling and well anticipated interceptions from Oke man of the match John Jarvis were needed to nulify their threat.

Teign did force a couple of short corners but Okehampton keeper, George Morgan, saved their shots comfortably. The lively Okehampton forward line continued to create chances and when a well struck shot from Brett Lawson hit the keeper's pads Jacob Lloyd was well placed to smash home the rebound and secure another three points for Okehampton.

This excellent result maintains Okehampton A team's 100% record and leaves them 12 points clear of their nearest rivals at the halfway point in the league season having only conceded two goals.