Devon & Exeter Premier

Okehampton 1

Buckland Athletic 0

OKEHAMPTON'S status in the top flight is guaranteed, after they beat the league champions on Saturday.

Argyle started brightly and matched Buckland in every department with wing-backs Pollard and Maddax causing problems down the flanks. Gill and Mortimore in attack chased every loose ball, giving the visitors no time to settle.

Buckland were restricted to long-range shots as Argyle's defensive trio held firm, giving good cover to keeper Bailey, who was only called upon to make a handful of saves in the first half.

One notable save was an acrobatic tip over from close range.

In midfield, Agnew, Cann and Drew worked tirelessly in closing down Buckland and upsetting their pattern of play. Drew almost opened the scoring from a free-kick just eight yards out, and with all Buckland's players standing on the goal-line, he somehow blasted his shot over the bar.

Buckland were unfortunate to lose one of their midfield players with a broken arm. Mortimore then went off with a pulled hamstring to be replaced by Reddington who gave an excellent performance wide on the right, with Pollard pushing up front.

After the break and playing down the slope, Buckland started to push forward, but found Argyle on top form both in defence and midfield, with Bailey not having to make a noteworthy save.

Argyle caught Buckland on the counter attack midway into the second period when good work by Agnew set up Pollard who beat his marker and squared a pass to Gill. He made no mistake with his accurate shot to put Argyle one up.

Buckland tried to raise the tempo in search of an equaliser, but could not find a way through a well orgainsed defence, marshalled well by Vernon who had an outstanding game.

Young Gilbert came on for the last 15 minutes and settled in well, wide on the left after an injury to Maddax.

This result capped a recent good run by Argyle, who hope to continue this form next season.