South Zeal United . . . 1

Okehampton . . .0 AET

AFTER two very close matches already in the League this season, in which honours were equal, the scene was set for a very close local derby to decide which team would progress to the semi finals of the Geary cup.

In the first 20 minutes Okehampton were playing some great football and it was only some stout defending by the Zeal defence and several great saves from the 54 year old Cleave Collins that kept the score even.

As the first half progressed the Zeal defence,marshalled by Reg Wonnacott, started to get on top of the Okehampton attack and White and Smith in the Zeal midfield were becoming dominant.The balance of play was swinging Zeal's way and had it not been for some very good saves by the Okehampton keeper Zeal could have been two or three goals up at half time.

The second half started as the first finished with Zeal looking the most likely to score,Okehampton were playing well in the first two thirds of the pitch but could not supply the final ball to create any worthwhile chances,Zeal on the otherhand always looked dangerous and came close to scoring several times before the end of normal time.

Going into extra time Zeal lifted their game and effort to another level and it was no surprise that after five minutes of extra time they took the lead.

A ball was played out of the Zeal defence to Alan Vile,Brimacombe made a perfectly timed run and Vile found him with a great flick,Brimacombe drew the Okehampton keeper and slid the ball past him to break the deadlock.Okehampton pushed forward in an attempt to get on even terms but the Zeal defence and mid field held firm and restricted them to long range efforts.This was a well won victory by Zeal and both teams should be congratulated for providing a great game for the spectators.

Next fixture: Saturday 24th February Home to Culm Utd KO 3 pm

Team: Tim Saunderson, Henry Bellairs, Roger White, David Wooldridge, Garry Smith,Harley Cann, Shaun Hiscock, Alan Vile, Leon Ware, Alan Brimacombe,Cleave Collins,Reg Wonnacott,Tim Butler.