Carlsberg South West Peninsula premier

Launceston 1

Tavistock AFC 5

ANOTHER fine display by Tavistock, in very difficult playing conditions, enabled them to maintain their lead at the the top of the league. The visitors played against a strong wind in the first half.

The game got off to a fast start with the Lambs having the greater share of possession. However, it was the Clarets who took the lead in the 15th minute when against the run of play, Callum Watson picked up a loose ball 25 yards from goal, his fierce shot nestled low in the corner of the net. The Lambs equalised five minutes later when  following a foul on Jack Crago, Dave Hallett’s free kick found Josh Grant, who fired home from 15 yards. Both teams played some entertaining football on a difficult playing surface. Neither side could find an opening as defences continued to dominate. There was no further score before the interval.

Tavistock manager Stuart Henderson had to make changes at the interval with both Ben Cross and Glyn Hobbs picking up injuries during the first half. Lewis Daw came on for Ben Cross and Luke Brown took over from Glynn Hobbs.

Two minutes into the second half the Lambs took the lead when following a good move the ball could only be partially cleared by the home defence; the ball fell to Josh Robins on the edge of the penalty area and his first time shot flashed past Launceston ’keeper Tewkesbury into the corner of the net.

The visitors now started to dominate the game and it came as no surprise when they increased their lead just before the hour mark. Great work by Josh Grant beating two defenders before providing the perfect cross for Jack Crago to slot home from eight yards.

Five minutes later Sam Davey went close for the home team, but it was the visitors that extended their advantage in the 80th minute when another flowing move from defence to attack, saw Shane Krac fire low into the corner of the net from twenty two yards.

Three minutes later things got much worse for Launceston when Lee Rundle was sent off for his second yellow card offence.

The Lambs made it five in the 87th minute when Tyler Elliot was crudely brought down in the penalty area. Josh Grant flashed the spot kick into the net to complete the scoring.

This was another good performance on a soft pitch with the playing surface cutting up as the game progressed. The team adapted really well to the conditions continuing to play their pass and move game. Everyone can be pleased with their performance ensuring that the challenge for the title continues.