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SATURDAY 14TH

DIVISION 2

Chard Town Reserves travelled to Uplowman on Saturday looking looking for another win to boost their chances of back to back promotions.Having played Uplowman last Saturday which resulted in a 3 1 win,Chard were hopeful of getting the 3points.Chard were playing their 3game in 7days and made 1 change to the starting 11 from Tuesday nights game where chard won 2 1 at broadcylst with goals from joe Carbin and Greg Channing.
The game started at a very fast tempo with chard dictating the play for the first 15mins and not allowing Uplowman the chance to keep the ball for any length of time.This was down to the hard work of the midfield 4of Fooks,fowler,Aplin and Warry who broke most things up and then got the front 2 of Channing and Carbin moving forward and cause chaos with the Uplowman defence.The scores only  stayed level because of some last ditch defending and goalkeeping from Uplowman.But the score changed after a Carbin corner was flicked on by Fooks for manager Darren Stewart to fire home from 4yards out!!
Uplowman did try and get back into the game but again chard stood firm with keeper Warfield in commanding form and the back 4 of barfoot,Parris Webb and Stewart winning all headers and not allowing the home strikers a seconds piece.The 2nd goal was only going to be a matter of time coming and Channing delivered it after latching on a Warfield clearance to lob the advancing keeper.2 nil to chard at half time.
The 2nd half was only a few minutes old when chard were forced into a double sub with Warry and Fooks carrying hamstring injuries being replaced by miller and Craig every.But the outcome was the same as chard continued to have all the play and were creating chance after chance but again a mixture of poor finishing good defending and goalkeeping kept the score at 2-0.Chard did make it 3-0 after fowlers shot was cleared off the line from a defender only to hit the keeper and go in.It was fitting that in form striker Greg Channing scored to make it 4-0 with his 10th goal in 6games.Chard saw the game with ease and just retained the ball without ever being to troubled.
Manager Darren Stewart said The lads have been excellent since Christmas working really hard in games and training and it's showing in their fitness as we get to the hard part of the season.We have all learnt a lot from last season and grown as a team,everybody is in together and it's really showing on the pitch.Hopefully we will win our remaining 3games to continue this good run we our on.We have no game on sat but are home on Tuesday 24th April v Topsham which if we win we are promoted.

DIVISION 5

Exmouth Town Reserves played their final league game of this season at Culm United, and came away with a workmanlike 3-2 victory.
Despite the fact that it was a must win match and the players have a cup final place to play for, Exmouth rarely achieved the level of performance they have in recent weeks. They did not close the opposition down quickly enough and the passing at times was shoddy. However, on the couple of occasions that the ball was moved into dangerous positions, it resulted in goals. Excellent work on the left and a fine cross gave leading scorer Leigh Clarke a rare headed goal and  Luke Smith again beating the right back put over a ball that Ian Boyd prodded home with his second touch after coming on as substitute.
 2-0 at half time, but more lethargy in the second half gave Culm a glimmer and a goal to make it 2-1. Richard Ralph on his 30th birthday was desperate to celebrate with a goal. On two occasions he sent shots in from 20 yards, both crashing back off the woodwork. Another fine strike from Clarke gave Town the two goal cushion and the opportunity to give other players a run-out with the Football Express Cup Final places on offer. A second late goal from Culm made for a nervous last 10 minutes but Town held out with the impeccable Tony Pallet calmly dealing with all that Culm had to offer.
Exmouth have now scored over 100 goals in each of the last two league campaigns and gained successive promotions. They have been at the head of this division since early November and whilst they feel they deserve to win a second league title they are still looking over their shoulder to see if Newtown can win their remaining four games and pip them by one point.

DIVISION 8

Met Office 1-2 Tipton St. John 2nd
Tipton claimed the their second 2-1 victory over the Weathermen this season and in doing so clinched the Div 8 title. Tipton looked much the better team early on and were two goals up inside 15 minutes. The first goal came from a powerful header after a long throw and the second goal soon followed when a cross from the left wing was met with an easy tap in from a couple of yards out. The Met Office slowly recovered from a poor start and Hayden Figures bagged his first headed goal of the season after an accurate far post cross from Matt Hurst. HT 1-2. Tipton had good chances to grab a third but, the second half remained goalless with the Met Office rarely threatening to secure the equaliser. FT 1-2. Clive Painter Met Office FC

SATURDAY 7TH

DIVISION 2

CHARD TOWN RES 3-1 UPLOWMAN ATHLETIC

Chard Town entertained lowly Uplowman Athletic on saturday and they proved to be a bigger test than their league position would suggest. Stewart made four changes to the starting line-up that lost the previous week at Clyst Rovers. Chard started the game as the brighter team and took the lead on 8 minutes as Greg Channing continued his hot streak by finishing calmly from close range. The onslaught on the visitors goal which many expected, never came. As the half went on the visitors grew in stature as they frequently used the direct route forwards towards their six foot five striker. Some astute defending from the Chard back line and in particular Kye Logan did manage to keep the Uplowman strikers at bay. The Robins did create a few of their own chances, the best falling to George Fowler who managed to hit the post when it seemed easier to score from just five yards. Darren Stewarts team talk was made some what easier when Channing again slotted home from close range just before the break. The Devon side were right to feel aggrieved to be two down at the break. After the interval, Upolowman fought hard to get back in the game and it was no surprise that when they did get a goal back it was from their target man after he evaded the attention of Ryan Parris. The goal seemed to kick the Chard town players in to life though. Chard made three substitutions and the pace of the Every brothers started to push Uplowman defence back to their own goal. On seventy five minutes Steve Every stood a ball up beyond the back post and Chris Warry showed great vision to volley the ball towards the incoming Luke Finn who headed home for his first goal since November. Fowler thought he had broke his duck for the season soon after, when he smashed the ball home from ten yards, only to see the referee had spotted he had just rugby tackled the defender to the floor. The remainder of the game was played out very professionally by Stewarts men with some good possession football and they now look in a very strong position in the promotion race.
 
DIVISION 5

EXMOUTH TOWN RES 3 - 2 HATHERLEIGH RES
Exmouth town reserves welcomed Hatherleigh to Southern road for their final home game of this season and managed to repeat the 3-2 victory they inflicted on the visitors a few weeks ago in the Express cup quarter final.
This was a different Hatherleigh team that arrived on Saturday however, it was packed with their youth team. All quick and eager to impress and put one over the division leaders. Despite Exmouth creating a host of half chances, the home team could not make the breakthrough and it was Hatherleigh against the run of play who raced into a two goal lead with fine strikes from their forwards.
After a frank half time discussion it was a different Exmouth that came out for the second half. They were quicker to win the ball back and the game was being played around the visitors penalty area. After more good work down the right, Gareth Davies put over an excellent cross that the keeper could not deal with and it went in off the far post. Luke Smith then won yet another penalty with his trickery, which he duly converted. The inevitable winning goal came from more pressure on the visitors defence and Gareth Davies was allowed two touches in the box, the second being him lashing the ball into the roof of the net.
Hatherleighs youngsters had given their all and Exmouth saw out the remainder of the game in comfort. It was a game Exmouth were expected to win but credit to Hatherleigh who we have played three times this season and each time have given a good account of themselves.
This win keeps Exmouth eleven points clear at the top of senior 5, but with games in hand Newtown can still take the title if they win all of them.

DIVISION 8

CHERITON FITZPAINE RES 1-3 COLATON RALEIGH RES
Cheriton were outplayed and outfought by a much improved Colaton side on Saturday. The away side had a lot of possession in the Cheriton half right from the off, and the Cherries couldn't start playing. This soon led to the opening goal which was scored at the near post from a low cross. A soft but clear penalty was then conceded, which was buried straight down the middle of Jim Cutler's goal. Cheriton were sloppy in possession, but a frustrating first half drew to an end with a good penalty shout being denied when Jamie Clarke was brought down just as he was squaring to Dan King for a certain goal. It was not given though, and Colaton went in at half time with a deserved 2 goal lead.
The second half was much the same, with the home side too flat and quiet. Colaton were better organised and playing the better football - Cheriton seemed to have lost the composure which they have shown so well this season, and were resorting to long ball tactics even once target man Ian Henson had departed. Colaton soon broke through again, their centre forward slipping through the defensive line and guiding the ball past Cutler with the outside of his foot. There was time for a late consolation from Mark Colville, who side footed in from a crossed free kick, but it was too little too late.
This game was a reminder that for all our progress this year, Cheriton still need to focus on basics if we are to play the way we want. MOTM Graham Thierens, who was solid at right back despite illness. The best of a bad bunch today.
Jamie Clarke

OTTERTON 1-0 MET OFFICE

Otterton completed a crucial double over the Met Office and put the Weathermen's hopes of a top three finish in jeopardy. The first half was a close affair, with both teams each creating a one-on-one chance against the keeper but failing to score . HT 0 - 0. The second half remained close but Otterton  had the best of the play. With ten minutes to go Otterton scored the only goal of the game. A shot from the edge of the penalty box was going wide but Eddie Hemmings put out a foot to deflect the ball into his own goal. FT 0 - 1
Clive Painter Met Office FC

SATURDAY 31ST

DIVISION 2

CLYST VALLEY 2NDS 1-0 CHARD TOWN 2NDS
Chard town reserves travelled to clyst valley looking to continue their recent good form.Chard started the game brightly but for all of their procession they never created any clear cut chances in the 1st 20mins of the game.Clyst were working very hard to close down and to try and stop chard playing and this resulted in them having a great chance but chards keeper Matt Warfield produced a great save from the home striker.Chard kept playing with a high tempo and were creating chances but they found the home keeper in superb form which kept the scores level at half time.
The 2nd half started like the 1st half ended with chard having all the procession and were creating really good chances a header from Darren Stewart 2 shots from Chris Warry a Greg channing effort which were all goal bound until the home keeper saved brilliantly.Clyst then won a corner which their skipper headed into the net despite Warfield getting his hand to it.Chard then changed formation and gambled to get the equaliser but found the home back line hard to break down and when they did couldn't get pass the keeper.so unfortunately the game ended clyst 1 chard 0.manager Darren Stewart said obviously the team is disappointed but we played very well worked hard made chance after chance but found the home side in great form their keeper and centre half were outstanding for them.But we stay positive and be raring to go next Saturday when we are home to uplowman ko3pm.The good thing is results went we us in the league so no ones closed the gap so it's still in our hands to finish 2nd.

DIVISION 8

MET OFFICE 6-4 COLATON RALEIGH 2NDS
The Met Office conceded more goals in this match but still came out winners in a goal fest at Hamlin Lane.  Josh Jerrett opened the scoring creating his own header that he looped over the Raleigh keeper. Colaton got back on terms when the ball was not cleared from a corner and after a close range shot was saved by the Met Office keeper the rebound fell to a Colaton player to hit the ball home, despite the efforts of Ross Lister to clear the ball off the line. Hayden Figures recaptured the lead for the Weathermen with a terrific overhead bicycle shot from 16 yards out. Josh Jerrett then  grabbed his 2nd goal after feeding on a long ball from Darren Baker in the Met Office goal. Before the half, Raleigh pulled a goal back from the penalty spot after Ross Lister had been adjudged to have handled the ball in the area. Half Time 3-2. Hayden Figures extended the lead for the Met Men with another well taken effort but, Colaton quickly hit back with a low volley from a right wing cross. Figures then completed yet another hat trick for the season but, Raleigh were still not beaten and scored direct from a free kick from 25 yards out to close the gap to one goal. The goal scoring finally came to an end with about 15 minutes to go as Josh Jerrett completed his own hat trick to settle the game for the Met Office. The referee, Jamie Hayward, should be praised for having a good game and allowing the game to flow when it was right to do so. Met Office goals: Hayden Figures 3, Josh Jerrett 3. Clive Painter Met Office FC

CHERITON FITZPAINE 2NDS 4-0 NEWTOWN 4THS
A much changed cheriton team managed to overcome a Newtown team that put up a much better fight then the scoreline suggests. Cheriton dominated early on and were awarded a penalty for a clear handball Inside the the box reliably converted by Andy Hearn. Cheriton then tried to extend their advantage but that only opened the game up and the game became end to end, cheriton had two clear penalty shouts turned down and wasted numerous chances while the counter attacking Newtown threatened but only managed one chance wasted by the striker when through on goal. The second half saw more chances wasted the best from Andy Hearn after robbing the defender of the ball only to slice wide, newtown we're more of a threat this half and we're awarded a penalty after the striker was brought down by cheriton keeper daniel (jim) cutler, jim redeemed himself by saving the pen and somehow the rebound was missed by the inrushing attacker. The pressure was relieved when mark Colville broke from the back and after a couple of one twos drove the ball past the keeper when clean through. The third was scored by substitute Ian Henson who was rewarded for his bravery and strength to roll the ball into an empty net after he shrugged off the keeper and a defender. The 4th was the pick of the goals, jim kingdom powerfully striking a rising shot into the roof of the net from 25yards. Cheriton passed the ball around with ease once the result was settled and the referee finally brought the game to an end after Lewis Deem poked narrowly wide.

SATURDAY 24TH

DIVISION 5 

CULLOMPTON 3RDS 0 - 11 EXMOUTH TOWN 2NDS
Exmouth Town Reserves traveled to Cullompton and handed out an 11-0 thrashing to the home side. This was Town's 34th goal scored in the last four games, with only three conceded. With the ease of this victory it's hard to imagine when the sides met at Southern Road a Richard Pears hat-trick gave Cullompton a 3-2 victory.
This win keeps them firmly in pole position at the top of senior five and ensures promotion although they could still only finish third if results go against them.
There was nothing in the first half to indicate the margin of victory would be so great. On a narrow, hard pitch it was difficult to move the ball effectively, but goals from Marius Ifrim and Gareth Davies gave the visitors a muted 2-0 half time lead.
It was pointed out during the interval that this was the sort of game that we should dominate more comfortably and therefore post a respectable scoreline. From the whistle the goals started to come. Steven Cadywould capped an incredible run of form with his third hat trick in as many games, although he did get four today! Josh Kirby managed a brace, Paul Crocock, Achref Ghnami and Brandon Perry all weighed in with one a piece.
 Although most players would rather have a more competitive encounter, you can only beat whats in front of you, and to this squads credit whoever they are playing they always give 90 minutes and never coast through a game. And just like last season they are finishing strongly to send out a warning to the chasing teams.
The Reserves are without a game this week and have only two league games to play. They are home to Hatherleigh on April 7th and finish their league campaign away to Culm on April 14th. The final destination of the Division Campionship may not be known until Aptil 28th when Town's nearest challengers are due to meet in what should be the last league match of the season.

BILL SLEE CUP SEMI FINAL
COLYTON 3-2 NEWTON ST CYRES
A glorious day, a big crowd enjoying the sunshine,a pristine playing surface, couple that with two teams keen to play passing football and you have the ingredients required for an afternoon of  high entertainment. The place to find this sumptuous dish was the Peace Memorial Playing Field as Colyton and Newton St Cyres served up a treat in their Bill Slee semi final.It was indeed the visitors who started the brighter, quickly slipping into a neat passing game which belied their division four status. The quality of their play surprised the home side somewhat who were a little slow to find their game. Just as Coly were finding their way in the match they were stung by an opening goal from Cyres. A freekick on the left some 30 yards from goal was floated to the far post where the full back had stole in to head the simplest of chances, a terrible goal to concede as he had jogged in undetected whilst the home defence slept. Only 15 minutes had passed and the partisan home crowd were silenced. This goal stirred the home side into action and they began to enjoy some good possession but could not fashion a decent chance. Marc Potter and Nathan Maddocks were providing great width and caused the visitors a few problems,it was from a good run down the left that Maddocks won a throw deep in enemy territory, taken quickly George Moore whipped in a great cross which was powerfully met by the head of Cal Somers giving the keeper no chance as he notched his 21st goal of the season. The equaliser hurt the visitors who soon found themselves behind when Potter smashed an unstoppable volley from the edge of the box making the half time score 2-1. To be ahead at the break was a little fortunate but Coly took full advantage and were further in front on 70 minutes when Marc Potter chased a lost cause, as the defender panicked he whacked the ball at the on- rushing  wing man only to see it cruelly deflect into the Cyres net. At 3-1 the game appeared all  over but the Tanners always like to entertain the crowd and as injury time beckoned some very sloppy play in midfield gifted the away striker a free run on goal. Keeper Reid did his best to win the ball but was deemed to foul his opponent resulting in a converted penalty. With moments left the defecit was halved, however the home side managed to hold on with no more scares to progress to the final. On performance it was very difficult to tell there were two divisions between the teams, Newton St Cyres can count themselves unfortunate to not have at least taken the game to extra time. Although Colyton weren't great it was felt that Cyres were worthy adversaries. Scant consolation perhaps, but they deserve many plaudits for their endeavours. George Moore picked up the man of the match award chosen by Sean Greig of SG Auto repairs, a sterling midfield display.

SATURDAY 17TH

DIVISION 2

WESTEXE 1-5 CHARD TOWN
Chard travelled to 4th placed westexe rovers looking to put last weeks disappointing draw behind them, and it took only 18 seconds to breach the westexe defence. Jamie barfoot found chard captain Joe carbin who turned his marker before slotting a perfectly weighted ball through to strike partner Greg Channing who cooly slotted past the advancing keeper. The home side were struggling with chards work rate and tempo and it was 2 nil after 14 minutes. Chris warrys ball forward was dummied by carbin and Channing was through again to round the keeper and stroke the ball home. The 3rd was a great team goal involving no less than six chard players and steve everys cross was tapped home by Channing to complete his 1st half hat rick. The rest of the half was one way traffic with carbin dropping of and linking midfield and attack almost at will, but chard were denied 3 more goals by some dubious refereeing decisions. Chard went in 4-0 at the break after chris warry curled a great free kick home from the edge of the box. The 2nd half started with warry being penalised for handball and westexe pulled one back with there 1st shot of the match. The goal failed to spark a comeback from the home side and chard had a their 4 goal cushion back almost immediately, when steve every pounced on a spill from the keeper to slot home. Chard had numerous chances in the 2nd half to increase their lead but the game ended in a well deserved 5-1 win. 
Joe Carbin

SATURDAY 25TH

DIVISION 3

LYMPSTONE 0-1 SANDFORD
Well some times there are games where you just cant believe that you have lost and no matter how many times you look back over the game you still cant believe its happened, and this Saturday was one of those days. From the first whistle to the final whistle the Lympets laid siege to the Sanford goal and created chance after chance but came away with nothing even when they were awarded a penalty the gods didnt favour them and the keeper guessed right and the ball just hit him but sometimes that happens, all credit to Sanford who never gave up hope and were rewarded with a poor ball out of defense was met by their player just smashing back over a stranded Mike Delahaye, and bouncing into a empty net. Some great quick passing football from Lympstone, some near misses, one cleared off the line and a great debut by Chris Hindmarch. Sandford go away with a 1-0 win and even they couldnt believe it but the Lympets will march on and fight till the end and hope some more results and shocks go their way.
M.O.M a great debut from Chris Hindmarch
Duane Greenslade

DIVISION 5

HATHERLEIGH TOWN RES 2-2 EXMOUTH TOWN RES
Exmouth Town reserves made the long journey to Hatherleigh and returned with a 2-2 draw. But it was a case of two points lost, rather than one gained.
Town traveled with just eleven players and manager Alan haywood as the only substitute, as six players had become unavailable for this fixture. So it was to the credit of the eleven that they began brightly and put the home defence under imediate pressure. It was one way traffic as Exmouth created numerous chances but were unable to convert any of them. On a heavy pitch it was towns intention to play wide and get the ball into the box as much as possible. Luke Smith and Gareth Davies were able to do this, but the Hatherleigh defenders were having a good game and managed to deal with most of what was thrown at them.
The home team were gifted a cheap penalty and with their only shot on target in the first half were one up against the run of play.
At half time Exmouth were told to stay patient, keep their shape and work for the first goal, which would surely open the floodgates for more to come. The only change in shape was to pull James Sharkey back into midfield and switch with Tim Caudrelier who went up front. Within five minutes this had worked out perfectly as Sharkey won the ball in midfield and put in Caudrelier, who smashed the ball in past the advancing keeper. The second goal was inevitable as town increased the pressure. And Leigh Clark was at hand from close range as the home defence were looking to lose their shape.
It was looking like Exmouth would go on and grab a bagful as they created chance after chance, but the woodwork and some strong defending kept them at bay. With 20 minutes remaining it was time for changes and to bring on fresh legs to keep up the momentum, but without that luxury, the visitors had to battle on as Hatherleigh began to see more of the ball. Simon Grigg who has not played for a few weeks came back in and was putting in a man of the match performance looking as if he has never been away. With less than five minutes remaining, Steve cadywould tried to run the ball out of defence and was caught in possession, leaving an easy chance for the Hatherleigh striker to roll the ball in the corner. Town, despite being the leagues top scorers, will rue the missed chances today as they created enough to win two games. And this late equaliser may prove to be costly as they look to maintain their push for the Division 5 title. This Saturday they entertain St. Martins (kick off 3.00pm). Earlier in the season they beat the Exeter based side 3-1.

DIVISION 8

MET OFFICE 2 - 0 TEDBURN ST MARY RES
The Met Office secured a league double over Tedburn to secure 4th place in the table and open up a gap between them and Tedburn. Several players had decent chances to score for the Met Office before Pete Weston  finally put the Met men a goal up on 30 mins. The Teds keeper failed to hold the ball after a free kick had been floated into the box and Weston pounced to stab the ball home from 10 yards out. The lead was soon doubled when Hayden Figures fired a ball into the bottom corner from 16 yards out. HT 2 - 0
The Weatherman created several more chances to score in the 2nd half and should have won the game by a greater margin. Tedburn rarely looked like scoring with the Met Office back four and keeper having a solid game throughout the match. No more goals were scored so the Met men claimed their 13th win of the season. FT 2 - 0
Met Office goals: Pete Weston Hayden Figures
Clive Painter Met Office FC

CHERITON RES 3-2 OFFWELL RES
An exciting game at White Cross saw Cheriton Fitzpaine do the double over a strong Offwell side with a 3-2 win to add to their 3-0 away victory. Offwell started in the best possible way with a superb long range strike which curled away from the despairing fingertips of Cherries goalkeeper Jim Cutler. Joe Clarke nearly responded immediately for Cheriton, but the wingers lobbed volley dropped agonisingly just over the bar. Cheriton fought back well with some neat passing football,but equalised through a more direct route when striker Dan Kings persistence paid off as he battled through and poked past the advancing keeper. Following good work by Chris Broad, King added a second goal as half time approached. His near-post finish deceived the away sides keeper, and the Cherries went in 2-1 up at the break. Offwell came out fired up, and Cheriton tried to remain calm and in control. However, in doing so they dropped too deep and invited Offwell on to them. The result was a spell of pressure which ended in a close-range equaliser which the home side strongly contested was scored from an offside position. This goal seemed to spur Cheriton to come out of their shell and start to play their football again, and they were largely in control after this point. Dan King immediately thought he had secured the hatrick his excellent performance deserved, but his shot hit the post before trickling along the line. Andy Hearn had a one-on-one bravely saved by Offwells keeper before Offwell had a lob cleared off the line by Sid Roberts.
The game turned decisively five minutes from time, when Chris Martin made a burst into the box from midfield and was chopped down as he went to convert a cross. Andy Hearn slammed home the penalty, and the home fans celebrated - Cheriton just needed to hold on now for a well-earned victory. But the Cherries did more than hold on. Joe Clarke weaved into the box and was felled as he turned back inside. The ref had no hesitation in awarding another spot kick, but Hearn blazed this one well over the bar. Luckily, he had scored the one that mattered, and Cheriton secured another excellent win.
Man of the match has to be Dan King, not just for his two goals but also for his tireless work rate and composed hold-up play. This was King back to his best, and we hope to see more of it over the coming weeks!
Jamie Clarke Captain, Cheriton Fitzpaine

SATURDAY 18TH

DIVISION 2
CHARD TOWN RES 2  SIDMOUTH RES 1
Chard reserves welcomed Sidmouth Town to the lane on Saturday,who were unbeaten since Chard defeated them back in December.With Chard looking for their 1st win of the year it was all set for a great game.Chard started attacking the slope and straight away settled into the game quicker then the visitors but without causing them any serious problems.This allowed Sidmouth to  get back into the game and forcing keeper Matt Sweet into a smart save.Chard then raised their game and took the lead after good build up lead to Joe Carbin setting up Steve Every who scored despite under pressure.Chard continued to control the game and scored again when Joe Carbin ran past his defender and fired home only to see the flag up for offside much to the disbelief of the players and supporters.Chances were coming thick and fast for chard but none were taken,so they went in at half time 1goal to the good.
Sidmouth came out in the 2nd half looking  determined to take advantage of the slope but the chard back line worked tirelessly to stop most attacks.This was until a soft free kick was given just outside the box and the kick took a massive deflection off the wall and wrong footed the keeper to make the scores 1-1.
The pitch was getting sticky and was getting hard to play passing football,but both sides continued to try.With the game looking as if it was going to end a draw.A back pass was chased down by Steve Every and the keeper kicked it at him and he reacted quicker and rolled the ball into a empty net to give Chard the lead 2-1.Sidmouth threw everything at Chard to try and salvage something from the game but the whole chard side defended and kept their shape to see out the win.
Manager Darren Stewart said The whole squad was fantastic today,they keep their shape played when they could and got stuck in when they had too.Its great to get back to winning ways after not playing for a couple of weeks we now need to continue the form we showed today and take it into next weeks game at Broadclyst.
DARREN STEWART

DIVISION 3
Lympstone 3-4 Colaton Raleigh
Well nothing more than a win for both teams in this big 6 pointer today as Lympstone welcomed Colaton Raleigh to the cliff field and so it looked from the start with both teams pushing right from the start to get the edge and with a few chances going begging it was left to Jack Greenslade to break away from the Colaton defence and round the keeper before slotting home for 1-0, that certainly made up for his previous miss. Soon after an attack from Colaton ended with a shot blocked with his hands by Dan Bowden and a penalty awarded and despatched well for Colaton  and within 5 mins a breakaway from Colaton ended up with a good finish for 2-1, Lympstone tried hard to get back but time ran out and the half time whistle blew. Changes from Lympstone with Bowden and Hyde being replaced by Jamie Alford and James Beverley and a more attacking team came out for the 2nd half.
Immediately this proved to be the case as several chances went begging until the ball played up to Beverley who the turned looked up and beautifully curled a shot over the Colaton keeper for what can only be described as a goal of the season contender 2-2 and very soon after a cross from the right was met by Alford who volleyed it home for 3-2. Both teams were going for it now and the next goal was always going to be crucial and so it turned out with only 6 minutes left a cross from the left from Colaton was missed by all and fell to a player at the back and he smashed it home for 3-3 this seemed to lift the Colaton team and with every minute they pushed hard for the winner , then a ball picked up in the middle by Rikki Pitta who turned and smashed a low drive which just crept in the inside right post 4-3 and a tremendous fight back , then the final whistle and the game was ended. Well done to Colaton for a great win and a fantastic game between two sides chasing promotion it could have gone either way and it certainly was all that we expected but unfortunately the Lympets just fell a little short on the day. Never mind but they will fight all the way until the final game and hope some results go their way.
Duane Greenslade

DIVISION 5
AXMOUTH UNITED 3 EXMOUTH TOWN RES 4
Exmouth Town traveled to Axmouth needing a win to stay top of what is becoming a very competitive division. They came away 4-3 winners, although making hard work of their victory.
Without any of their three keepers, Exmouth drafted in Ian Boyd as the man with the gloves and he readily accepted the responsibility, although we are not so sure as whether he will be so keen next time.
In what was a keenly fought and close first half, Exmouth edged a one goal lead with an excellent headed goal from Leigh Clark. It was a goal that gave the away team a deserved lead, although Axmouth were good value for a spirited 45 minutes.
At half time manager Alan Haywood made two changes, that would give a run out to players that had not played competitively for three weeks. Unfortunately the changes unsettled Exmouth and for the next 25 minutes they lost their shape and gave away three goals to the home team, who could sense a win and went for it. With a defeat and their lead at the top of the division about to be relinquished, it took inspiration from the two central midfielders of Exmouth to turn the game around. Tim Caudrelier started to lead by example and win the ball back around the pitch and a wonder goal from Richard Ralph who was fully 30 yards out when he hit an unstoppable shot with his standing foot, gave the away team hope. Although there were still only 12 minutes remaining. Axmouth were now looking to hold onto their narrow one goal lead, which invited Exmouth to attack at will and a equaliser was inevitable as Rob Hayes poked home from close range to make it three all. Exmouth threw everything at the home team and with almost the last kick of the game a shot from Leigh Clark was guided home from Luke Smith, who was again in the right place at the right time.
With seven league games and potentially three cup ties remaining Exmouth are still in contention for two trophies. They need to show the character and competitiveness of the final 15 minutes of this game to see them over the line, otherwise teams around them will be looking to pounce. This Saturday they travel to Hatherleigh who are languishing at the wrong end of the table. With all their major challengers winning last weekend another victory is essential to maintain their quest for back to back league titles.
JOHN DIBSDALL

DIVISION 8

Met Office 4 - 2 Lympstone 2nd
The Met Office got their revenge against Lympstone after a 3 - 1 reverse in January. The Met Office just managed to field 11 players with no subs at a changed venue of King George V playing fields which had not been a happy hunting ground for the Weathermen in previous matches. Lympstone started the game much sharper and hit the post after a couple of minutes. Within 10 minutes Lympstones bright start was rewarded with their first goal of the match. After 20 minutes the lead was doubled with a shot from 20 yards that sailed past the unsighted Met Office keeper. The Weatherman then started to battle back and Hayden Figures  smashed the ball home from the edge of the box to give the Met Men some confidence that they could get something out the game. By the half hour the Met Office were back on level terms with another Figures goal that was tucked into the corner from just inside the box. Figures had a chance to give the Met Office the lead before half time but could not take advantage of a 1 on 1 with the Lympstone keeper. HT 2 - 2
The 2nd half was rather scrappy, with neither team creating any real clear cut chances. With 15 minutes to go the stalemate was broken. Stuart Bell broke into the penalty box from the right and was adjudged to have been brought down by a Lympstone defender. Hayden Figures stepped up to take the spot kick and secured his hat trick when his shot went in off the inside of the post. With a couple of minutes to go victory was sealed for the Weatherman as Stuart Bell picked up the ball on the right wing, 35 yards out from goal, and struck the ball over the stranded Lympstone keeper into an empty net. FT 4 - 2
Met Office Goals: Hayden Figures 3 Stuart Bell
Clive Painter Met Office FC

Colaton Raleigh Res 0 - 1 Cheriton Fitzpaine Res
Cheriton Fitzpaine continued their good recent form (1 defeat in 9 games) with a solid away win at Colaton Raleigh. The first half was a scrappy affair, with neither side getting into a good passing rhythm. Colatons three centre midfielders were getting slightly more time on the ball, but Cheritons defence was well organised as usual. After 10 minutes, the deadlock was broken when the outstanding Andy Hearn picked up a loose ball just inside the Colaton half and advanced before slamming a powerful shot into the roof of the net from about 30 yards out. The rest of the first half proceeded in a similar style, with the home side having slightly more possession but creating little (outside of a long range strike which crashed off the bar).
Cheriton seemed happy to contain Colaton throughout the second half, with keeper Jim Cutler sweeping up comfortably and having a relatively quiet afternoon. As the home side became increasingly desperate in their search for a leveler, Cheriton were able to really threaten on the break. Sam Clarke fired narrowly over on the turn, Chris Martin had a shot blocked on the line and Jamie Clarke both thumped a shot over the bar and had a clear penalty shout turned down. In the last 10 minutes, the fight seemed to go out of Colaton Raleigh as Cheriton toyed with them, keeping possession well and carving out a last few chances.
For the majority of the game this was quite an even and scrappy encounter, but Cheritons defence always felt comfortable and they were able to threaten well on the break. Another classic away performance, and Cheriton have now not conceded a goal in 275 minutes of football and counting.
Men of the match for Cheriton were Mark Colville, who was outstandingly composed at centre back and Andy Hearn, who outfought the opposition midfield despite being outnumbered.
Jamie Clarke
Captain, Cheriton Fitzpaine

SATURDAY 11TH NO REPORTS SUBMITTED

SATURDAY 4TH

LYMPSTONE 1 SOUTH ZEAL 1
With all the freezing weather and only 3 games surviving the conditions it was a surprise when the all clear was given to this fixture.
The ground although a little hard it was still a little slippery but enough give to take a stud, both teams new this was going to be a tough afternoon, and so it was.
Lympstone started the brighter and were soon creating chances and could have been 2-3 up in the first 20 mins but for some great defending off the line and some unlucky finishing, but South Zeal kept in the game and at times did create a few chances as the game progressed the conditions got worse and it soon became difficult to even run let alone play any football but again both teams tried and the half time whistle brought the half to an end.
0-0 and a great game for the few spectators who had braved the weather, Lympstone were missing key players and it was very apparent but fought hard to find a way through this determined South Zeal team then a rash challenge in the box by Loz Phillips ended with the ref awarding a penalty and this was dually slotted away for 1-0 for South Zeal.
Lympstone pushed hard and were caught out several times with good breakaway moves but with Mike Delahaye in fine form in between the sticks he managed to keep the score down, then a great ball in from Dan Griffts brought down in the box by Jack Greenslade who turned sweetly and smashed the ball past the keeper for 1-1.
Both teams could have nicked it but in atrocious conditions a draw was probably a fair result and all credit to them for giving a entertaining game.
Although there were great performances from Chris Hooker,Stuart Tuckett , Loz Phillips and two debuts from James Beverley and a Returning Dan Bowden the M.O.M  must go to Mike (Spike) Delahaye for a great effort.
A big thanks to both sides for a great example of competitive fair football. 

SATURDAY 28TH

DIVISION 2

CHARD TOWN 3  ELMORE 5
Chard Town welcomed Elmore to the lane on Saturday looking for their 1st win of 2012.Chard started the game attacking down the slope and forced the away keeper into a couple of early saves.But he was unable to stop Joe Carbin putting Chard ahead after Greg Channing had broke the offside trap and crossed for a easy tap in.Chard then allowed Elmore back into the game with 2 goals which both came from defensive errors.However Chard got back level after the excellent Greg Channing scored with a great chip over the keeper to make the score 2 2 at halftime.
The 2nd half kicked off and with Elmores 1st break the forward fired in at the near post to make it 2 3.This spurned Chard on and they raised the tempo of the game and started to create chances but Elmores defence and keeper stood firm.With chard pushing for the equaliser Elmore caught the home defence napping again and their forward made it 2-4.But chard kept going and were still making chances and after a mazy run from Greg Channing was bought to a abrupt end from a defender which resulted in a penalty,up stepped Joe Carbin who is normally so deadly from set pieces but unfortunately fired over the bar.
This seemed to give the away side a big boost who were starting tire,but every time they got the ball chard won it back and kept surging forward and scored when a cross from Craig Every was met by Joe Simmons but his header was cleared off the line only for it to fall to Steve Every who volleyed home to make the 3-4.The game was now wide open with both sides looking for the next goal,which did come deep in injury time as Chard were committing players forward to grab a equaliser Elmore cleared and their striker was bought down it the box for a penalty in which the taker made no mistake to make the final score chard 3 elmore 5.
Manager Darren Stewart said obviously the whole team is bitterly disappointed but we are all strong characters and will bounce back from what we hope is only a minor set back.Defensively we werent at the races today we gave them 4 of the 5 goals,But the pluses was the final 3rd play today was superb.So hopefully we will get back to winning ways next sat when we are away v Exeter uni.

DIVISION 5

EXMOUTH TOWN 4  WOODBURY 1
As local games go, they do not get much bigger than this. Woodbury versus Exmouth, 1st v 2nd, with bragging rights and a league title to play for.
And it was Woodbury who came out the blocks quicker, winning most of the first and second balls during the opening 20 minutes. Most of the play was in the air and this played to Woodbury's strengths as every ball just came back into the Exmouth goal mouth. The opening goal to Woodbury was inevitable. Following a good cross from Alex Hughes, Kev Pitt was left with an easy header from close range. Exmouth had to dig deep to get a foothold in the game and were fortunate to equalise fairly quickly from a scrambled header from Josh Kirby.
Exmouth were getting more of the ball now and keeping it on the ground as planned. The impressive James Sharky picked up a loose ball and lashed it in off the far post for his first goal for Exmouth, which set the pattern for the remainder of the half. Exmouth were keen to keep the ball and play the channels, whilst Woodbury lost a little of their discipline and gave the ball away via free kicks.
Woodbury came out for the second half and looked to take advantage down their left side, but the ever reliable Achref Ghnami at right back was having none of it and stood up to whatever was thrown at him. Exmouths game plan was to keep their shape and discipline and continue to play in their wide players behind the away teams defence. With Josh Kirby having a man of the match performance leading the line and Luke Smith making excellent runs at the Woodbury right back the invaluable third goal came from a penalty after Smith was crunched in the box. Kirby slotted home the kick.
Woodbury had a player sent off with 20 minutes remaining, following a second yellow card, and the rest of the game was played at Exmouths pace with a fourth goal coming after Luke Smith broke from deep beating the offside trap and passing the ball into the far corner.
There were other strong performances from Exmouths Tony Pallet and Steven Cadywould, who not for the first time this season looked solid and played the ball out of defence intelligently.
This win puts Exmouth in top spot, but Woodbury are still in with a shout in second. However there is still a lot of football to play, and with Newtown losing both teams should gain promotion, just in which positions is yet to be decided.This Saturday Town travel to Culm looking to complete the double having won the home fixture 3-1 back in October.

DIVISION 8

LANGDON 5  OTTERTON 6
Otterton went into this match with three key players missing and no recognised striker in the starting eleven. So centre back Luke Elstone and Charlie Pearcey starts up front. Playing up the slope Otterton we under constant pressure and were soon behind to a well worked Langdon goal. Otterton seemed unable to cope against this well organised team some poor defending and a few wrong decisions and Langdon had increased their one goal lead to five by half time. HT Langdon 5 Otterton 0.
A re shuffle of players and the change in formation with Shelby Verdi Salinas coming on for Adam Rolls. Playing down the slope Otterton slowly started to get back into the game a second substitution of Ryan Mitchell came on for Charlie pearcey, Otterton soon had their first goal, Lee Mitchell shot and hit the post, Shelby headed in the re bound, this seemed to lift the Otterton players and Shelby soon added a second lobbing the keeper from the edge of the 18 yard box. Otterton continued to press and a Ben Yeoman%u2019s cross was volleyed in by (F) Luke Elstone this sent the away supporters (all found of them) wild. Otterton made their last substitution with Liam Tweedie coming on for his brother Nic Tweedie. Time seems to be against the otters when a Charlie Copleston cross was meet by Shelby who cooly placed the ball past the keeper. Within a few minutes a spectectultive 35 yard shot from John Dack deceived the keeper to make it 5 all. With minutes remaining a goal mouth scramble the ball fell into the path of Lee Mitchell who thundered home from 8 yards to give Otterton the win.   The entire Otterton team Adam Williams, Pete Wannell, Lee Chapman, Ben Yeoman%u2019s, Charlie Copleston, john Dack, Lee Mitchell, Liam Tweedie, Shelby, Luke Elstone, Ryan Mitchell, Nick Tweedie, Charlie Pearcey, Adam Rolls gave their all and thoroughly deserved the result.
 
Met Office 8 - 1 Folly Gate & Inwardleigh
The Met Office completed the double against Folly Gate with an aggregate score of 17-1. The Weatherman started the better team but failed to take some early chances. Against the run of play one of Folly Gate strikers got the wrong side of the Met Office defence and lobbed the ball over the Met keeper to give Folly Gate a shock lead. The Weathermen recovered from the setback and were soon in the lead with goals from Josh Jerrett and Hayden Figures and with the half time approaching Stu Bell scored the third goal for the Office. HT 3 - 1
The Met Office continued to dominate the game with their keeper a spectator for much of the time. Mike Errington finished off a good move to score the Met's  fourth goal of the day. David Bennett then started to get in on the act and knocked in a brace of goals, one with his left and one with his right foot, from the edge of the box. Hayden Figures then grabbed his second when he knocked the ball in from close range after a cross/shot was fired in from the right by Gary Ofield. To finish off the scoring Dave Bennett bagged his perfect hat trick with a header from a Ross Lister cross. FT 8 - 1
Met Office Goals: Dave Bennett 3 Hayden Figures 2 Josh Jerrett Stuart Bell Mike Errington
Clive Painter Met Office FC

NEWTOWN 4THS 0 CHERITON FITZ RES 5

A great team display from cheriton saw them into plus goal difference for the first time this season. The game started off badly with neither team playing good football until chris broad curled a 20 yarder into the top corner, cheriton then took control and started creating chances with no result until Dan King touched in from a Paul Scholes like diagonal ball into the box from Sam Clarke. Newtown faded after half time and it was just a matter of time before another goal so step up chris Martin to thunder into the net from 40 yards, the fun started then and everyone was after a goal both strikers disappointed not to score hatricks, the fourth was a close range header from a corner after the manager targeted corners as a way of getting goals at half time. Great vision was behind the final goal Lewis Woollcott finding emmet Hanley at the back post. Cheriton remained disciplined and committed to deserve the clean sheet and a man of the match can't be picked out of so many

SATURDAY 21ST

DIVISION 2
CHARD TOWN 0  HONITON TOWN 0
Chard welcomed Honiton Town to Zembard lane after having no game last Saturday.Chard were able to name a strong starting line up with players returning from injuries and holidays.The visitors though are on a unbeaten run which stretches back to October 23rd.So it was always going to be a good game.Chard started the game defending the slope and the wind in what was a very even half,with both sides trying to get the ball down and play.The 1st chance of the game fell to the visitors when a striker broke the offside trap but home keeper Ryan Peacock saved well.Then it was the turn of Honitons keeper to save well from a good free kick from Joe Carbin.The game was being played at a high tempo and with both sets of players fully committed to tackles.Which ended with both sides cancelling each other out.
The 2nd half started with chard raising their game and had 2 good chances within 5mins of the restart but both were wasted.The visitors were having to dig deep as chard keep them pinned in their own half and were defending well as a unit.Then with 5mins remaining a great move down the Chard right resulting in Gareth Fooks crossing for the in rushing Dan Aplin who connected brilliantly only to see the Honiton keeper make another superb save to keep the score 0 0 and to protect a point for the visitors.
Manager Darren Stewart said - Well what can I say my lads did everything right today apart from put the ball in the net,but its another point.Honiton were a well organised side with the right blend of old heads and youth so I can see them continuing their unbeaten run.But my lads have to do better in the final 3rd as we our not taking or creating enough chances so its something we need to work on training.We have to get back to winning ways starting next sat(28th jan) when we play Elmore at home ko2.15.

DIVISION 4
AS WEBMASTER I HAVE INCLUDED THE TWO CLUB REPORTS BELOW AND READERS WILL NO DOUBT REALISE THERE IS A LITTLE CONFLICT BETWEEN THESE TWO CLUBS INVOLVED. HOWEVER I WOULD ASK ALL CONTRIBUTORS TO BE AS FAIR AS THEY CAN AND NOT MAKE THEIR REPORTS VENDETTAS WHICH COULD GET THEM AND ME INTO TROUBLE. PASSION IS A GREAT PART OF OUR NATIONAL GAME BUT SO IS FAIR PLAY AND GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP SO I HOPE EVERYONE WHO SENDS IN THEIR REPORTS WILL BEAR THESE ATTITUDES IN MIND.

LYMPSTONE 3 UPOTTERY 4
Lympstone got all they deserved and Upottery went away with 3 points but how different it could have been.
The Lympets started well but couldnt find a way through a defence that seemed to be getting all the decisions, the Ref had a good game but its a shame he wasnt supported in the same way? Then just before Half-Time a mistake in the Lympstone defence gave Upottery the opportunity for a 1-0 lead,
The second half started and Lympstone needed to make changes with Josh Hill limping after a heavy challenge a triple change, off came Hill Alford and Phillips with Dale Evans, John Greenslade and a returning Jack Greenslade coming on.
What a move with his first touch Jack Smashed the ball into the bottom corner and was looking dangerous every time he got the ball, Anton Hyde was now being released down the wing and more chances went begging , then 5 minutes of madness , two more errors in the back gave Upottery two more goals.
A good move through the midfield of Canning and Dunne sent up to Jack and again he left his defender and coolly finished for 3-2,but all in vain , soon after another error and 4-2, Lympstone pushed hard and a corner from Hyde eventually fell to Evans at the far post and he tapped home for 4-3, right on the final whistle a good run into the box from Mark Hobbs who had been sent up from his defensive role, his shot was clearly stopped by the defenders hands but was not given.
The game ended and Lympstone had been defeated, two goal line clearances, missed chances and to many errors, Lympstone didnt deserve to win this one and they got what they deserved. 
All the hard work of the previous weeks undone a vast improvement needed next week they are going to maintain their charge for the title
M.O.M Jack Greenslade ( Showed exactly why we have missed him)

REPORT ABOVE BY DUANE GREENSLADE (LYMPSTONE)

After reading my counterparts match report I do feel it necessary to give my opinion (based on fact) on how I saw the game on saturday, as this is not the first time Mr Greenslade has spent more time questioning the integrity of our linesman rather than actually reporting the facts of the game ,this is shown in the errors in the order in which the goals were scored (same as last season).  Upottery arrived very under strength and with only one sub but fielded a team that was more than capable of causing a very upward and mobile lympstone problems.
This was shown in the 34th  minute when a neat build up in midfield resulted in striker Catalan Pislaru sliding the ball past an on rushing keeper from a tight angle the score stayed this way until the break which was a cautionless firsthalf. After the interval with the slope in their favour Lympstone applied some good pressure which resulted in the eqauliser with a good shot that deflected just past the keepers grasp into the cornor of the net. Just after the hour mark good pressure on the Lympstone rightback by Jack Reed led to a mistake which resulted in Chaz lane advancing into the box to fire into the far right corner of the net. Not long after, Chaz Lane was in the thick of it again chasing down a weak header by the Lympstone captain which was meant for the goalie. after beating the keeper to the bounce Chaz rounded the keeper to net his 2nd and the otters 3rd. Still with no cautions in the game the best part of the game arrived with both sides trading hard but fair tackles with end to end action with Lympstone now pushing hard to get back into the game Upottery broke from sustained pressure which resulted in  Sam Winslade being brought down  some 30 yards out . Sam took the kick himself and to everyone's amazment including the opposition keeper, he unleashed a rocket which struck the crossbar which luckily rebounded to Pislaru who took his gift to make the score 4-1 (4-1).To Lympstone's credit they never gave up and layed seige to the Upottery goal getting back into the contest  with a succession of long throws and corners. The later resulting in Jack Greenslade scoring when left unmarked at the back post 4-2. the last goal of the game wasn't much differnt from lympstone's second, again a player scoring from a yard out after the defence not dealing with a cross. all in all a good game which i believe Upottery came out on top due to the hardwork and team ethic .
Great experince for the three sixteen year olds who enjoyed the blood and thunder of the contest.
M.O.M has to go to Merv Sawyer, the club linesman, who always seems to attract unnecessary critism when ever we travel to Lympstone. That win is for you Merv from all the lads.
keep up the fiction Mr Greenslade and good luck with the title charge.
DAN PRETTEJOHN

DIVISION 5
NEWTOWN 2 EXMOUTH TOWN 2
Exmouth Town reserves met Newtown 3rds in a table topping encounter, which ended in a 2-2 draw. Exmouth are having a torrid time of it during January with only one point to show in three games prior to this match. So it shows how much spirit there still is in the team to come away from this, disappointed in only the one point.
Exmouth challenged for every first and second ball and kept Newton at arms length for most of the first half, Tim Caudrelier opened the scoring with a typical goal from 18 yards smashing into the roof of the net. Newtown responded with a goal from a free kick, which had more to do with the wind blowing it in than any real intent from the home team.
In the second half Exmouth had the advantage of the strong wind and scored almost immediately with Achref Ghnami finding the top corner, although again very much wind assisted. Exmouth then camped in the Newtown goal mouth for the next 40 minutes, but a combination of fine goalkeeping and desperate defending meant the third goal would not come. Newtown finally broke free with five minutes remaining and won a free kick, which was bundled in for their only attempt on target in the half.
This result will suit Newtown as they have games in hand on Exmouth and others. So the league is probably theirs to lose. The disappointment was compounded for Exmouth by losing three senior players to injury, which will keep them out for the next few weeks. and with Woodbury to come this Saturday in a top versus second derby encounter. Not what was wanted.

DIVISION 8
TIPTON ST JOHN 0 CHERITON FITZPAINE 0
Cheriton Fitzpaine drew 0-0 at runaway league leaders Tipton St John. The pitch was better than expected, which led to optimism that some good football might be played. Unfortunately, the game was very scrappy, with most of the play in the middle of the park or in the air. The home sides main threat was coming from long throws and corners, but Cheriton coped well, threatening on the break themselves. Jim Kingdon went closest for the Cherries, with his lobbed volley being cleared off the line by a covering defender. Tipton shot just wide from range just before half time, but failed to create any clear-cut chances.
The second half saw more of the same, with Tipton coming forwards in numbers but struggling to break through a determined and well-organised Cheriton side. Goalkeeper Jim Cutler dominated his box in an excellent performance, and deserved his clean sheet. Tipton showed more urgency as the final whistle neared, but could only muster tame shots from distance.
In a game dominated by the defences, a draw was probably a fair result despite Tiptons dominance of possession. Cheriton were delighted to be the first team this season to leave Tipton undefeated. It is impossible to pick a standout MOTM for the away side, with the entire back 5 excellent and the rest of the team well organised and disciplined.

Colyton Reserves 1-3 Offwell Reserves
Colyton started the match very sluggishly and were clearly struggling to come to terms with the heavy pitch. Offwell were enjoying plenty of possession and came close to scoring when Bradley Turner made a good stop from close range, before Connor Male blocked the follow up on the goal-line. Colyton gradually worked their way into the match and Jedd Feldman forced the keeper into tipping the ball over the bar when his cross was heading into the net. Jacob Young then saw his effort sail over the bar after a good team move. Offwell took the lead after 40 minutes when the forward found room in the box and shot low past Turner to open the scoring. The visitors then doubled their lead just before the interval when a set-piece wasnt cleared and the ball was tucked away from 6 yards.
At half-time we felt that with the wind behind us in the second half we could come back into the match. However, just 5 minutes into the second half Offwell increased their lead with a really soft goal which was defended poorly all round, and the ball was placed into the corner of the net from the edge of the box. Colyton were looking very shaky and could have gone further behind had it not been for poor finishing. The Tanners did pull a goal back when they were awarded a free-kick after a good run from Feldman. He stepped up and sent a wonderful ball into the box which was headed past the keeper by Jason Webber. This lifted Colyton, who then enjoyed some good spells of possession but were limited to long range efforts with Rangers defending well.
This was a disappointing result for Colyton after the good performance from the previous week. We really struggled to get going at the start of the match but then looked the better team up until Offwell scored...unfortunately we conceded three goals in ten minutes which ultimately cost us. Jacob Young was awarded the Man-of-the-Match award (sponsored by Rob Collier) after another accomplished display on the wing.
Colyton Line-up: Bradley Turner, Andy Staples, Connor Male, Jason Webber, Mat Hunt, Jedd Feldman, David Long, Paul Millman, Jacob Young, Oliver Tollerfield, Nick Taylor.
Subs: Gary Sims, Hugh Davies, Hicham Bouhnid.
Goal Scorer: Jason Webber

SATURDAY 14TH

Division 8

Met Office 4 - 2 Lapford 2nd
The Met Office picked up their first win of 2012 with a comfortable victory against Lapford.  The Weatherman started slowly and went behind after 15 minutes when a failed defensive clearance fell to the Lapford centre forward who hit the ball first time into the bottom corner of the goal. This seemed to be the wakeup call that the Met Office needed as they started to play more football in the Lapford half. Hayden Figures nearly equalised when he chipped the keeper but the ball hit the crossbar. However, by half time, Figures had claimed a brace by finishing two similar 1-on-1 chances against the Lapford keeper to give the Met men a one goal lead at half time. HT 2 - 1
The Met Office continued to have the better possession and Phil Sandercock was unlucky not to open his account for the season when the Lapford keeper tipped the ball over the bar from a 25 yard shot. The Met Office looked to have the game sealed midway through the half when Pete Weston scored a powerful header from a well delivered Dave Bennett corner.  However, against the run of play, the Lapford substitute striker cut in from the left wing evading the Met Office defence and tucked the ball into the bottom right corner to give Lapford hope of getting a point out of the game. With five minutes to go the game was finally settled when Josh Jerrett seized on a defensive mix up and slotted the ball home from close range. FT 4 - 2
Met Office Goals: Hayden Figures 2 Pete Weston Josh Jerrett
Clive Painter Met Office FC

Colaton Raleigh 2nd 0 Colyton 2nd 0
Colyton started the match promisingly and were knocking the ball about well on a very uneven surface without creating any real chances. It looked like Steve Real had won a penalty when tripped in the box, but the referee thought otherwise and awarded a goal-kick. After a good start from The Tanners it was the home side who bossed the rest of the half. Similarly to the way Coly had started,  Raleigh  were now seeing a lot of the ball, but they couldn't create much either. Their only efforts came when a free-kick was tipped over the bar by Bradley Turner, and a header which was saved well by Turner from close range following a corner.
Coly came out slowly after the break and Raleigh saw a lot of the ball in the opening spells, however, it was Colyton who created the first chance when Jedd Feldman was put clear by Oli Tollerfield but he skewed his shot wide. Raleigh thought they should have been awarded a penalty themselves when a free kick was blocked by an arm, but the referee didn't see it and awarded nothing...a let off for The Tanners. Nick Taylor then hit the post from 35 yards when his volley looped over the keeper and came back off the foot of the far post, with the keeper left completely stranded. Real then had two efforts saved brilliantly by the keeper when he sent two shots towards the top corner. Both teams pressed for a winning goal but it didn%u2019t come and the match finished with the deadlock unbroken.
This was another impressive performance from a Colyton line-up with an average age of less than twenty-two. Man-of-the-match could have gone to any of the defence, but Connor Male  just took shaded it as he was  playing centre-half for the first time.
Colyton Line-up: Bradley Turner, Sam Tollerfield, Jason Webber, Connor Male, Mat Hunt, Jedd Feldman, Paul Millman, David Long, Jacob Young, Oli Tollerfield, Steve Real Sub: Nick Taylor

Jimmy Richards (Colyton 2nds Assistant Manager)

SATURDAY 7TH

DIVISION 2

Chard Town Reserves entertained Tiverton Town Reserves on Saturday in their 1st game since dec10th.It was 1st v2nd so it was always going to be a great game to watch.The game started with Chard attacking the slope on the wet and sticky pitch.But went behind after 13mins when a defensive mix up allowed a tivvy forward to set up his strike partner who made no mistake from 15yards out.The game was being played at a high tempo by both sides and both doing their best to play some neat passing football.Chard did create a goal scoring chance but Dan Aplin fired wide after good work from Steve Every.But disaster stuck for Chard right on half time with the ref giving a free kick on the corner of the box which never was,Tiverton swung the ball into the 6yard box and a tivvy player had a free header to make it 2 nil.
Chard were forced into a change at half time as Adam Cole injured his groin and was replaced by Joe Carbin.Chard moved forward and kept the ball really well in the 2nd half but never really caused the tivvy goalie into a save.With Chard continuing to push forward to create a goal they were caught as a forward broke the offside trap and fired past the home keeper to make it 3 0 final score.
Manager Darren Stewart said "Fair play to tiverton as they are a good side who allow sides to play and their back 4 today were superb.But saying that the 1st goal was a mistake from us and the 2nd was never a free kick but we never dealt with the ball in the box afterwards.So its frustrating but I cant fault the lads effort and commitment we have to take it on the chin and look forward to our next game at home to Honiton on Jan 21

DIVISION 5

Axmouth 0  Heavitree 4
Heavitree hit 2012 on the front foot as they blew away Axmouth on a heavy pitch. Wayne Kings over the shoulder volley set them on their way and a audacious juggle and volley by Webb extended the lead on 20 mins. After this Liam Cook hit the cross bar before getting his first and heavitrees 3rd as the Axmouth team looked shell shocked. 
More of the same was to come in the second 45 mins as the heavies used their squad well to add fresh legs and kepp the pressure on the Axmouth goal , Matt Dicker introduced on 55 mins promptly hit the post with a fine effort and this was a warning of what was to come as he ssmashed home his second effort to give the Heavies a 4 0 lead. Heavitrees rear guard was well protected by goalie Les Hutchings and its was overall a fine team performance.     
Scorers: Wayne King  Gary Webb Liam Cook Matt Dicker

DIVISION 8

Lympstone 2nd 3 - 1 Met Office
The Met Office played their first game since 3rd December and the lack of match fitness probably showed in the second half. The Weatherman started the game reasonably well and took the lead on 25 mins when Stuart Bell attempted a cross from the right hand wing that sailed over the Lympstone keeper in to the top corner. Lympstone equalised on 35 mins when their striker slipped the Met Office offside trap and stabbed the ball past the advancing Met Office keeper from wide on the left of the penalty box.  HT 1 - 1
Lympstone went up a gear in the second half and were the better team. They took the lead on 65 mins when the ball was hooked in from the edge of the six yard box. The game was sealed with 10 minutes to go when a low shot from 25 yards rolled into the corner of the  Met Office goal. The Met Office woke up for the last ten minutes but could not force their way back into the game although they did create a couple of good chances.
FT 3 - 1 Met Office Goal - Stuart Bell
Clive Painter Met Office FC

Colyton Reserves 3 -1 Woodbury Reserves
Colyton started the New Year with a home fixture against Woodbury. The visitors saw a lot of the ball in the opening exchanges, but failed to create an y goalscoring opportunities. It was Coly who took the lead when Jedd Feldman found himself on the end of a wonderful diagonal pass from Jacob Young. Feldman controlled the ball before lofting the ball over the advancing keeper. Colyton continued to see limited possession of the ball but were looking dangerous on the counter and comfortable in defence. Colyton were awarded a foul wide on the left and Feldman sent the ball into a dangerous area allowing Young to head the ball into the far corner of the net; excellent assist and finish.
Coly were looking good at this stage but were rocked when a fairly innocuous challenge saw Massam twist his knee horribly, which saw him subbed off the pitch and subsequently announcing that he would be retiring with immediate effect. This seemed to unsettle The Tanners and Woodbury pulled a goal back just before half-time when they bundled the ball home from a set piece.
Woodbury came out from the interval looking confident and almost equalised early on when Bradley Turner saved well after the forward broke away, the rebound fell kindly to his strike partner but Connor Male somehow managed to clear the ball off the line when a goal looked inevitable.
Colyton were defending well, and still looking dangerous on the break and Oli  Tollerfield sealed the win late on when finishing from a tight angle after starting his run in his own half.
Woodbury had a player sent off after the final whistle after he abused the referee. No referee should be threatened in such a way at any level of football, whatever their level of performance.
This was an excellent result because we didnt necessarily play that well on the day. We showed real guts and determination to grind out a result on a heavy pitch, defending well throughout the team and taking our chances when they arrived. No-one defended better than Connor Male, who was rightly named Man-of-the-Match (sponsored by Ken and Mary Long). It was very pleasing to see three 16/17 year olds on the scoresheet, with another awarded MOTM. The only negative for The Tanners was a nasty knee injury to Paul Massam and we hope that he recovers as soon as possible.
Colyton Line-up: Bradley Turner, Connor Male, Andy Staples, Matthew Orsman, Paul Massam, Jedd Feldman, David Long, Paul Millman, Jacob Young, Oli Tollerfield, James Tucker.
Subs: Mat Hunt, Jason Webber, Tom Orsman.
Goal Scorers: Jedd Feldman, Jacob Young, Oli Tollerfield.
Jimmy Richards (Colyton 2nds Assistant Manager).