Carlsberg South West Peninsula league division one East

Crediton United 0

Tavistock AFC 1

THIS win secured the Lambs' promotion back to the premier division of the South West Peninsula League. This result secured at least third position in the league, which is enough to secure a rapid return to step six football.

Crediton provided a stern test for the Lambs as the Crediton defence was resolute and proved to be a tough nut to crack. They also looked lively in attack, so the Lambs' defence had to be at their best in order to keep a clean sheet.

Tavistock were without Kelvin Fyneboy and Stewart Clark, who were unavailable, so Jack Crago came in to lead the attack and Sean Manley replaced Clark in defence.

The game started at a fast pace with both teams probing each other out, without creating any real scoring opportunities. The visitors created a great opportunity to open the scoring in the 15th minute; Carlton Farnham made a fine run down the wing and he cut inside the penalty area, got to the dead ball line where he shot for goal, instead of squaring the ball back across the six yard box. His shot was well wide of the target.

The Lambs were now producing some good football and were testing the home defence with some fine moves.

In the 25th minute Jack Crago broke clear of his marker and produced a magnificent cross into the penalty area but it was just out of the reach of the on rushing Farnham.

Thomas and Maskell then combined well, but Maskell dragged his shot wide of the target. Martin Piper was then called on to make a fine save to deny the home side from taking the lead. They were then awarded a free kick just outside the penalty area Ord shot over the bar.

On the half hour Tavistock took the lead when Will Stringer finished off a fine move down the right; he cut inside and unleashed an unstoppable left foot shot from 18 yards that flew into the far corner of the net. The Lambs continued to press looking for their second but the home defence were in no mood to concede another goal before the interval.

The second half saw the home team up their game and the started to put the Lambs' defence under pressure. Martin Piper made a good save to deny Lee from levelling the scores.

The game was now from end to end with both teams trying to unlock two defences that looked really sound. The visitors probably had created the better chance but the home team did cause them concern on the counter attack.

In the 75th minute Tavistock had a scare when they carelessly lost the ball in their own half, but Lloyd Copp shot over the bar from 20 yards.

In the final ten minutes the home team pushed and pushed for an equaliser but with the Lambs' defence in fine form and anything that got past them was well dealt with by keeper Martin Piper.

Tavistock came through this tough task and were able to celebrate on the sound of the full time whistle.

This was another fine team performance with everyone playing their part. The defence was superb with Stringer, Manley and Daw putting in good performances. Josh Robins at wing back was outstanding making many penetrating runs down the left flank. Keeper Martin Piper was in fine form and marshalled his defence well while Dave Hallett put in his usual impressive shift, commanding the middle of the park, with the energetic Dan Follett breaking up many moves that the home team try to build in midfield.

Maskell, Thomas, Farnham all had good games, and Jack Crago showed that he is a really good player as he lead the front line with pace and craft.

The management team of Kevin Hendy and Darren Stewart has been very professional, resulting in this fine season and gaining promotion back to the Premier League.

There is still an outside chance the Lambs can win the title but they must win their last two games to have any chance. Support to cheer them on would be appreciated.