Pinhoe 2

HAVING been behind twice in this fiercely contested match, Hatherleigh were delighted to see Paul Endacott's strike, five minutes from time, give them a confidence-boosting three points.

On an overcast afternoon and heavy pitch, attacking football was the main tactic and both teams provided a highly entertaining contest.

The first goal came after 30 minutes. A long clearance from the Pinhoe keeper somehow found its way over the Hatherleigh defence, and their striker confidently placed the ball past the keeper.

The home side responded strongly and looked determined to get an equaliser before half-time, Andy Harnell hitting the bar with a header and Sandro Lucioni the post with a long-range drive.

For the first time in the half, five minutes before the break, the Pinhoe keeper failed cleanly to take a cross from a corner and dropped the ball for Simon Ward to hammer home from close range.

The second half began with more of the same, Hatherleigh hitting the post twice and seeing an effort cleared off the line. Pinhoe defended strongly and looked to counter-attack quickly when given the opportunity. This eventually paid dividends and they took the lead after 45 minutes.

Wave after wave of Hatherleigh attacks followed, Pinhoe seeming content to hold on to their lead, defended deeper and deeper. In line with the run of play, skipper Simon James showed strength and determination to grab the equaliser from six yards.

Endacott's eventual winner came from good build-up play down the left hand side by Ward, who laid the ball to Simon White to line up a delightful chip into the top corner.

This Saturday home to Seaton Town, kick-off 2.30pm.