Devon & Exeter League Premier Division
Exeter University . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Okehampton Argyle . . . . . . . . . .1
PLAYING with a strong wind in their favour in the first half, Argyle failed to capitalise on a host of chances, mainly through players unable to control a very lively ball on a very firm pitch.
Adam Mortimer, Steve Williams and Robbie Sandercock all saw good chances go well wide, and only late in the half was the University keeper called upon to make saves which were on target.
Argyle's defence were not troubled too much by the occasional University attack, with Kevin Gill prominent with a few timely tackles and Sean Sandercock was a safe pair of hands between the sticks.
The second half was a different kettle of fish altogether.
From the start University took the offensive and in the 54th minute after a tremendous goalmouth scramble the ball ended up in the back of the net via the hand of a diving Sean Sandercock.
Five minutes later their lead was doubled after the referee awarded a penalty for a foul just inside the penalty area. Sandercock had no chance with the powerfully struck spot kick.
Argyle were lucky not to fall further behind after 70 minutes when Mike Vernon tried to shield the ball out for a goalkick.
But he was robbed by a quick thinking forward and was a little unlucky to see his shot rebound into play off the crossbar.
With five minutes left to play Argyle were awarded a free kick just outside the box and with the help of a slight deflection James Williams sent a powerful shot into the corner of the net.
There was no storybook ending to the match. University played out the remaining few minutes without further trouble.
Argyle are at home to Sidmouth Down, who are currently just two points ahead of Okehampton, having played the same number of games.
Kick off is at 3pm.
With now about ten teams fighting out the relegation spots, it could go right down to the wire, even to goal difference, so every point is now vital for Argyle.