FA Cup sponsored by E-ON

Larkhall Athletic 6

Tavistock AFC 2

TAVISTOCK travelled up to Somerset last Saturday hoping to have a happy coach journey back home with a win in the FA Cup, however it wasn't to be.

Tavistock will want to make this game a piece of history as the parts just didn't fit together on a sunny Saturday afternoon. This was the next qualifying game in the cup after a great 4-1 win over Ilfracombe in the last round.

Tavistock did manage to get off to a flier though, when on the third minute a ball was played through to captain Will Stringer who had his shot saved, but was rebounded home by Mike Southgate.

Southgate's goal was soon cancelled out by Larkhall's Lee Collier on the ninth minute and four minutes later Larkhall hit a 20 yard screamer to make it 2-1. Tavistock then tried to take some control and quickly got an equaliser when a throw in from the left hand side was flicked on for Mike Southgate to claim his second with a classy half volley.

Tavistock then lost concentration and paid the price. A minute on from Southgate's leveller they conceded a penalty, when the Larkhall's striker broke free and was brought down in the box. The penalty was slotted home to make it 3-2.

Tavistock then conceded a fourth on the 20th minute when James Moon scored for the home team. That goal seemed vital for Larkhall as it completely knocked Tavistock and they couldn't get a grip of the game.

To make matters worse Tavistock had Mark Conday make way, as he suffered a hamstring problem.

Larkhall were coming forward fast and looked dangerous but Andy Meeds pulled off some great saves to keep Tavistock in it. But with 10 minutes left of the first half, a ball was played through and the visitors failed to clear it. Larkhall took an easy goal and made it 5-2.

In the start of the second half Tavistock looked more lively but Larkhall were not going to back down. Tavistock were slowly making their way up the pitch but were caught on counter attacks and the Lambs' defence struggled with the quick pace of the forwards.

On the 60th minute Tavistock were awarded a free kick which was disputed between the players in the box. The referee tried to calm things, but tempers flared and resulted in two red cards - one sending off for Tavistock and one for Larkhall. The free kick was then eventually taken, and Will Stringer agonisingly headed wide. The game started to thin out for 10 minutes, until the 70th minute when Larkhall easily slotted home to sink Tavistock out of the FA Cup.

With all credit to Tavistock they fought to the end and tried to still make chances but it wasn't to be there day.

Tavistock can now try and progress in the FA Vase and also concentrate on the league.

l Tavistock's next game will be away on Saturday at Holsworthy in the South West Peninsula Premier League.

Tavistock AFC reserves are at home to Sticker in the East Cornwall Premier League, kick-off at 2.30pm.