Roborough FC A 1

CHAGFORD opened their pre-season campaign with a creditable draw with the team from the Plymouth & West Devon Combination League. Chagford had played these, in the Premier Cup last season, and Roborough again proved to be no walk-over.

Robbie Miller marked his return to the Chagford fold by opening the scoring,

with a superb free-kick in the 20th minute. From there, the game settled into an even pattern of good football. Any new faces in each team soon made themselves comfortable and contributed to the action well. Roborough's late equaliser was well taken and it was agreed, at the end, that a draw was appropriate in a match that was a good work-out for both teams.

Roborough FC B 4

Chagford FC Res 2

DESPITE the score-line, Chagford Reserves did a lot better than they have in recent seasons and deserved a little more from this match. One of the key factors has to be increased levels of fitness, thanks to Ralph's training regime. There is also the remarkable team spirit, left over from their battles of last year. The weather was more like winter than summer and did nothing to help the players on either side.

A somewhat bizarre own goal gave the visitors a 21st minute lead. For some reason, a home player fired a 35 yard shot past his own, stranded 'keeper! Finishing of the first degree but in the wrong direction.

Roborough brought themselves back into the game but were unable to prevent Chagford from extending their lead on the half-hour mark. Stuart Potter, who has not been the most prolific of strikers for a couple of years, superbly lobbed the home 'keeper and showed he is capable of magic when it's needed. Roborough were to pull back a goal, just before the break and give themselves a lift.

A sluggish start to the second half, by Chagford, led to an early equaliser and the hosts came on the stronger of the two teams. Roborough built their plays well and great wing-play saw them cruise to a two goal lead.

Antony Geering was excellent in goal and can take heart from his personal performance. New signings, Christian Oliver, Jon Scarry and Andy Parsons made useful contributions throughout the match.