OKEHAMPTON Men's Hockey Club continued their steady start to the season with a 1-1 draw against Ottery Crickets 3rds.

Okehampton started brightly, putting the visitors under early pressure but unable to break the deadlock. Man of the match Colin Lethbridge hit a well struck shot on the edge of the D, only to have it blocked.

Vice-captain Dennis had a quiet first half but after the break started to make his presence known, helping to co-ordinate the defence, Steve Yeo and Tim Morgan.

Andy Finley was unable to deliver the killer ball the players around him have come to expect but still managed to hold his own in the centre of the park.

Brett Luxton worked hard on the wing making good use of the space and ball; he was unlucky to strike the side netting.

The opening goal was not scored until late on in the second half when Phil Mellor, who ran up and down on the wing, helped to force pressure on the visiting defence. Richard Jones picked up a shot from Simon Bourne, who was able to take the ball on the turn and sweetly struck a half volley on the reverse strike; a remarkable effort.

Okehampton were unable to capitalise on their advantage and following a clearance kick by the captain in goal, Nick Kearly, Ottery drew level.

Okehampton were close to extending immediately after the restart, Parsons was just wide of the right hand post. Okehampton expressed thanks to Geoff and Jill at the Plymouth Inn for their continued support.

Okehampton start the Gerrard Hockey League Season this week away to OPMs.

l Okehampton men's hockey club continued their impressive start to the season with a 3-2 victory over Exmouth 1st XI.

Okehampton concentrated on playing their revised system with resounding effect. Mark Parsons opened the scoring followed by a penalty corner, converted by Andy Finley.

Exmouth scored shortly after the break. Okehampton reorganised, and Steven Yeo, Dave Dennis and Darren Phare played solidly at the back, supported by Colin Lethbridge. Making use of different players meant Keith Webber could slot into defence after playing well in midfield, while John Long had an impressive second half on the wing, making telling runs.

Okehampton managed to score one more. Richard Jones split the defence with a silky run and gave the home side the lead. Man of the match: Steven Yeo.