Okehampton U11s 6
Sidmouth U11s 4
THIS hard fought match saw Okehampton edge towards pole position in their division. The first quarter was dominated by an aggressive attacking opposition resulting in a lead for Sidmouth of 2-0.
The second quarter saw a rejuvenated side take the game to Sidmouth, clawing their way to a 4-3 lead.
A second half of dogged determination from Okehampton saw them draw away to a well-played 6-3 lead by the end of the third quarter. Sidmouth claimed a consolation goal at the end of the match.
Jack Stanbury was a rock upon which Sidmouth's dreams of victory were dashed. He and Paul Winthorpe exhibited maturity beyond their years. Brad Ausden, with his four-goal haul, and Harry Smith, with his two, showed the finishing power to a deserved team.
Men of the match: Brad Ausden, Paul Winthorpe.
Next match: February 22, away to Exmouth, 10.30am kick-off.
SAS Barnstaple 1
Okehampton U12s 1
OKEHAMPTON started well. Cameron Hansen had a shot in the first two minutes but hit the post.
Two more chances were missed shortly after by Robert Dunn and Hansen. Kieron Alford played some lovely balls into the forwards, but Okehampton just could not score. SAS scored from a corner after 15 minutes.
Okehampton were under pressure to score, which they did seconds before half time, when Sam Appleby ran round the keeper.
During the second half there was some good football. Jeph Ware and Josh Wilson made several good challenges to keep the ball away from Okehampton's goal. Jamie Stephens almost gave Okehampton a second goal when he struck a good shot.
Man of the match: Cameron Hansen.