OKEHAMPTON Argyles Carlsberg South West Peninsula League side were let down in pre-season friendlies as a result of opponents pulling out of matches at the last minute.

On July 24, Western League side Wellington were due to visit Simmons Park but pulled out the night before as they had sustained too many injuries in a friendly match played on the Thursday evening.

Last Saturday, Argyle had intended to take a young experimental side to Devon and Exeter League team Winkleigh, but unfortunately the home side were unable to raise a side. This means that the only friendlies played so far have been an away match at Appledore on July 31 and last Tuesday away to Crediton United.

At Appledore, Argyle had several players missing due to holidays but still put in a fighting performance before going down 5-0 to a good home side. The result of Tuesday nights match is not known as the paper goes to press, but Argyle play their last pre-season match at home to Alphington this Saturday, before opening their league season at home to Penryn Athletic on August 21.

n The Reserves have played two pre-season games, putting in an impressive performance before going down 1-0 to East Cornwall Premier League side Morwenstow in the semi-final of the Moore Trophy at Holsworthy.

On Saturday they ran out 2 1 winners at home to Roborough Reserves, who last season were champions of the Plymouth and West Devon Combination division two.

This was an entertaining and close fought match and both teams are to be congratulated on the high standard of football and sportsmanship demonstrated throughout the game.

New manager Paul Yip has been rebuilding Argyles third team using a youth policy and has produced two fine results from his young side. On July 30, Argyle entertained Chagford Reserves and ran out deserved 5-3 winners with a strong performance.

This was followed up with a fine 2-0 away win at Hatherleigh Town Reserves last Wednesday evening, although it must be said that Argyle rode their luck in this match and can thank first team goalie Harry Geering for turning out for the team and producing a whole string of fine saves. Both matches were played in a fine spirit and were a good advert for what football is all about.

n On Saturday Okehampton Argyle play Alphington at home in a friendly, kick-off at 3pm