Duchy premier

Lamerton 1

St Cleer 1

LAMERTON kicked off the new season against newly promoted St Cleer.

It was a classic game of two halves, with Lamerton totally dominant in the first period, playing some good football and taking the lead through James Steer. However, St Cleer's superior fitness gave them a deserved equaliser in the second half. Steer's goal was of particular quality; latching onto a cleverly chipped Ross Hann through ball, he lobbed the advancing keeper from just outside the box.

Blair Vanstone was a constant threat out wide and nearly made it 2-1 when he ghosted past defender and keeper to get a clear sight of goal, but the angle was tight and he shot wide. Lamerton could have wrapped it up at the death, but Tony Underwood's point blank header was spectacularly saved.  

Gunnislake 1

Lamerton 2

A wet Wednesday night on the notorious St Anne's Chapel pitch produced a battling display from both teams, which Lamerton deservedly came through as winners.

Dan Healy and Dave Ball solidified the visitors midfield in the absence of Nathan Blamey and at the back, Steve Lake, Simon and Paul Breyley and Dan O Hare curbed the dangerous threat of Jarryd Kelly .

Dave Ball whipped in a superb free kick, which was guided into the corner by Kev Swift's head for the first goal and Tony Underwood scored from close range, following another Ball set piece for number two.

Gunnislake were awarded a penalty seven minutes from time, when the ball hit Underwoods arm as he turned inside the area.

With three minutes to go Lamerton had a penalty of their own.  James Steer, who ran the home defence ragged all game, turned three players on the edge of the box, resulting in a desperate lunge bringing him down. Steer hit the spot kick low to the keepers left, which was well saved.