Hatherleigh Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
St Thomas . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
FOLLOWING their recent poor cup performance, Hatherleigh were glad to return to league action. The early exchanges were fairly even, with both sides playing positive football and attacking at every opportunity.
Hatherleigh started with Ian Rowe and Martin Reynolds up front, as both James and White were unavailable due to injury.
The home side's defence were untroubled during the first half, with keeper Dave Penberthy continually organising the back four of Ward, Cleave, Adams and Pearson to great effect. The two clear opportunities of the half fell to Rowe, who blasted over the bar on both occasions.
Within five minutes of the second half, Rowe was brought down in the penalty box and Hatherleigh were awarded a penalty. Captain Stuart Dymond took responsibility, but saw his penalty saved.
Injuries to both Reynolds and Adams forced Hatherleigh to re-shuffle and with 20 minutes to go they took the lead. A pinpoint free kick from Pearson found an unmarked Paul Endacott, who headed into the top corner from ten yards.
St Thomas never recovered and with ten minutes to go, Andy Harnell forced his way into the box and coolly slotted home Hatherleigh's second.
Saturday away to Tap and Barrel 2.30pm kick-off. Away, Sunday at Lifton in the Okehampton Cup, 2pm kick-off.