Devon & Exeter Premier

Hatherleigh 3

Okehampton 3

EARLY exchanges were fairly even but as the first half wore on the home side started to take the initiative and should have gone ahead — Stuart Dymond's shot was well saved and with the goal at their mercy they somehow failed to capitalise.

Moments later a good cross from Steve Pilivant found Simon James whose point-blank header was superbly saved by Richard Bailey.

Okehampton looked dangerous on the break and following a good run down the right and a pinpoint cross found Ian King unmarked to take the lead.

But it was short lived, because within five minutes Hatherleigh had pulled level when Jamie Halpin nodded in a free kick at the near post.

The second half saw the game open up with Hatherleigh having the lion's share of possession but Okehampton looking dangerous on the break.

Hatherleigh took the lead from a corner, Dave Penberthy heading home at the near post.

Okehampton then enjoyed their best spell. Danny Maddax came close to equalising, having his shot cleared off the line, before Adam Mortimore levelled the scores with a good lob over the keeper.

With 15 minutes to go Okehampton took the lead for the second time when Maddax received the ball and his quick turn and shot flew into the far corner of the net.

Hatherleigh pushed men forward in a final bid to get an equaliser and with five minutes remaining they got what they deserved — the ball broke loose in the area and Dymond was on hand to tick it away to give them a share of the spoils.

This week Hatherleigh are at home to Feniton in the Premier League cup, kick-off 2.30pm.

Okehampton face Jewson SWL side Tavistock in a Devon Premier Cup game at Simmons Park. Kick-off, 2.30pm.