Devon & Exeter Premier League

Budleigh Salterton 2

HAVING travelled to the unbeaten league leaders with key players missing, Hatherleigh must feel disappointed not to have earned at least a point from this closely contested match.

Playing against a strong wind in the first half, they created the better of the chances with Dymond and James missing clear-cut opportunities.

Following what seemed an obvious penalty appeal for handball being turned down, Budleigh caught the Hatherleigh defence off guard with a long ball over the top. The striker, one-on-one, left keeper Penberthy with little chance.

Budleigh started the more confident in the second half, causing problems down both flanks, but the away side always looked dangerous going forward, however, another mix-up in the Hatherleigh defence led to the second goal being conceded.

Simon Person drove home a free-kick from outside the box to make it a nervous last ten minutes for Budleigh. With a couple of minutes to go, S James was denied by an excellent save by the keeper.

Hatherleigh manager John Hayman said later: 'Budleigh are top of the league because they continue to win this type of match. In order for us to improve our league position, we have got to convert good performances into good results.'