DCFA Veterans Cup

Chagford veterans 4

Bideford veterans 1

THIS was a good quarter- final between two sides prepared to play football, with the home side's resilience eventually carrying them through.

Bideford started much the better and took the lead through Mick Kearney, after 20 minutes.

The hosts played themselves back into the game with some neat passing play, that was matched by their guests.

Simon Ralph fired in a deserved 31 minute equaliser when sent into Bideford's penalty area. To the end of the half, the home goal led a charmed life as chances came and narrowly passed with keeper Vincent called to make more than one important save.

Chagford hopes soared early in the second half, when Rogers inexplicably dropped the ball for Chagford's Will Hutchison to stab the ball home.

Bideford carved out the better openings but failed to take advantage in front of goal.

Chagford gave themselves breathing space when Deeble's superb cross gave Ralph a simple nod in for his second goal.

Things were wrapped up, ten minutes from time, when Paddy Gillies was presented with a misdirected Bideford pass and calmly lobbed Rogers for the fourth home goal.

Both teams fully deserved the applause as they came off the pitch.