WBW Solicitors South Devon Premier League
Waldon Athletic 0
Chagford 1
CHAGFORD took maximum points and avenged last week's defeat in a bitterly contested match that saw many bookings and a sending-off.
Robbie Miller's goal midway through the first half was enough to see off Waldon, who despite being a man down later, could so easily have come back.
Saul Scarry, in the Chagford goal, was confidently dominant but capably supported by an unusual defence of Brown, Johnston, Botham and Reserves regular Martin Haxton.
The visitors showed that, when the going is tough, they can stand up for themselves but still need more points to ensure their safety.
Division 6
Chagford Res 2
Marldon FC Res 1
WHETHER it was promotion pressure or the attention of a large crowd, Chagford seemed to be living on their nerves for much of the first half of their final league match.
When they got the ball down and communicated, the hosts outplayed their guests who were playing for their own hopes of promotion.
Mark Williams, who could not travel to Waldon, and Oliver both saw good efforts saved, Philpott hitting another just wide. Thorn and Forsey dominated at the back, with Harvey and Cork able to support the midfield. Unfortunately too many passes were over-hit, giving Mortimore little chance at the front.
The second half saw Chagford step up their game and show the qualities that have kept them in the hunt all season.
A superb cross from Harvey found Williams at the edge of the box, the young striker skipping one tackle and coolly slotting the ball past the Marldon 'keeper.
Within minutes Christian Oliver saw a goalbound effort come off the bar and hooked off the line.
In the 67th minute, Chagford were rocked by a goal out of nothing. Geering failed to clear a hurried back pass, the ball falling to the feet of a surprised Alex McDonald who rolled it at an unguarded goal.
For a few minutes, play swung Marldon's way but they failed to press the advantage and allowed Chagford back in. Possibly the best chance fell to Mortimore who inexplicably palmed the ball goalwards when heading and scoring seemed easier.
Marldon legs were tiring and mistakes being made proved fatal, Williams scoring his second following a stunning move from defence to attack.
This final match was a well earned victory— the Reserves have shown skill, confidence, tenacity and tremendous team spirit. The players have blossomed, much of it thanks to the leadership of their management team of Simon Ralph and Andy Robbins.
The Reserves' whole outlook has turned around and this promotion is fully deserved.