South West one

Torbay A 2

ON a damp and miserable Saturday things started to come together for the home team, even though they did not win.

Tavistock started steadily, overcoming the weak openings of their last few games. Torbay looked determined, winning the 50-50 balls for the first quarter, until a Tavistock defensive error allowed them to strike the opening goal.

When Jake Walker took control of the centre of the pitch, the Tavistock side settled, holding their positions. Better structure provided more space to pass and they began to build attacks and win their share of the ball. They were rewarded in the 25th minute when a well-constructed attack put Isaac Staig in front of the goal and he equalised convincingly for Tavistock. 

Fletcher was on top form in goal, positioning himself well and by kicking and saving when necessary. The game was tied at half time.

The second half was end-to-end. Marchant created great opportunities from the left back position, playing long, accurate passes up the wing, and Isaac Kirwin showed great determination at right half, breaking down numerous Torbay attacks. 

Torbay consistently came at Tavistock. Cull, battling injury, did sterling work for Tavistock at the back. Hanson on his right led several counter attacks and tackled brilliantly.

 The deadlock was broken at 58 minutes when a tangle in the Tavistock D was pounced on by Torbay, who scrambled the winner over the line.

 Tavistock were unlucky not to take a point, but pulled numerous elements together and held formation properly for long periods. They won three penalty corners but could not convert them – one element they need to resolve to start winning regularly.