Devon and Exeter division one

Chagford 2

Witheridge Reserves 1

SURPRISINGLY this was Chagford's first home win since November, although they had to work extremely hard to secure the points keeping themselves in the top half of the table.

The opening minutes saw some delightful football from the hosts but without much penetration. In fact, Witheridge were to have a goal wiped off for offside in the tenth minute and then went on to boss the next quarter of an hour. Almost every corner and free-kick spelt danger for Chagford's defence with only some last ditch clearances and Luscombe's finger-tips keeping their heads above water.

Davis had Chagford's first clear chance went he was sent through by Kinsey only to have his shot well blocked, by an onrushing 'keeper. Minutes later Chagford were awarded a free-kick 25 yards out. Matt Mortimer stepped up and hammered a cracking shot home, the power too much for the Witheridge 'keeper to keep out. Witheridge responded well but Chagford dug deep and played out the half fairly comfortably.

The second half was better for Chagford as they controlled the ball and the game more. Witheridge threatened but the home midfield and defence had tightened up with Luscombe having little to do.

Just after the hour mark, Robbie Miller broke through as Witheridge pushed forward from defence, skipped round their keeper and found the net, despite a desperate lunge on the line from a defender. This gave much needed breathing space for them to start closing down the game.

With time running out, the pressure was renewed as Emanuel somehow scored a spectacular own goal, making the remaining period a little fraught for his side.

Devon and Exeter six

Clyst Valley thirds 0

Chagford Reserves 1

FOLLOWING their amazing win at promotion hopefuls Exmouth Town, courtesy of Gavin Forsey's double, the Reserves picked another well earned three points on their travels.

The team played well within themselves without having to work too hard for the result. Their midfield dominated and the defence looked comfortable throughout the game. The only goal of the match came from utility player Martin Haxton, as he grabbed his first league strike of the season.