Devon and Exeter division one

Chagford 0

East Budleigh 1

IN a match full of good football from both teams, Chagford were left to rue missed chances although beaten by an excellent goal.

The first half belonged largely to the hosts as, prompted by excellent wing-play, they forced second-placed East Budleigh on to the back foot. Within the first ten minutes, Emanuel and Whatley spurned reasonable chances for Chagford.

East Budleigh were restricted to long range efforts although one close-in header should have been buried, the ball dropping tamely into Luscombe's arms instead.

Wills came in at right-back for his first start, allowing Mortimer a distributive role in midfield. Chagford were handed a glorious chance for the opening goal but Hutchison blazed his shot over the bar. Davis then made space for himself but did the same four minutes later.

Ten minutes before the break, Miller's strong header was well saved as the home side closed the half in the ascendancy.

East Budleigh came out for the restart strongly and it was Chagford's turn to defend.

Gradually they played their way back until hit with a match-winning goal. Tuley picked up a loose ball some 25 yards out and smashed his shot past an admiring Luscombe. Try as they might, even with positive changes, Chagford were unable to break down a stubborn defence. This was a brave attempt by Chagford.

n This Saturday Chagford are away to Honiton Town, kick-off at 3pm.

Devon and Exeter six

Hatherleigh Town Reserves 2

Chagford Reserves 1

CHAGFORD had a good go at their local rivals but eventually fell to their fourth consecutive league defeat.

Despite a slow start, Chagford worked their way into the match but fell behind to the first goal coming from a mistake. Heads refused to drop though and the visitors were able create chances for themselves.

When Chris Woof smashed in a deserved equaliser, there was hope of picking an overdue point or more.

Sadly, it was another unfortunate goal that settled the game in Hatherleigh's favour. Chagford failed to clear their lines and the ball found it's way into the net, off defender Steve Brown.

The result takes a decent Hatherleigh side up to second spot but leaves Chagford still facing the spectre of relegation.