Brooker nets as SOHC defeat table-topping Duchy at Sidmouth

Both sides adopted a cautious approach to the start of the game and it was clear that neither team wanted to be the first to make a mistake that let the other get an advantage.

The home side retained possession well and began to open the visitors up with some incisive runs from Will Gallantree and Mikey Bell, who were constant threats for most of the game.

On several occasions the pair were put clean through for one-on-ones with the opposition goalie, set up by the clinical passing from the midfield. However the visiting goalkeeper continually proved equal to the task. The closest the contest came to having the deadlock broken was via a near post run from skipper Jim Harris who then passed to Henry Hoult. Hoult, faced with too narrow an angle to get any sort of decent shot away, slid the ball on to Jim Harris and he fed the oncoming Mikey Bell who was denied by some last ditch defending. Rick Robinson was also denied with his deflected effort going narrowly wide of the goal from a well-worked home short corner routine.

The hosts did not have it all their own way in the first half and Duchy posed a threat of their own through their fast-paced striker and managed to win a few short corners, which were successfully defended by the home team.

The second half was much of the same; the home side created further chances with patient build-up play, but sadly the slick approach play couldn’t fashion a goal.

Mid-way through the second half left back Ade Brooker found himself high up the pitch and with space to run into. He beat four players before calmly flicking the ball into the net.

The visitors were stung and rallied well, winning a number of short corners, but the home defence stood firm and, when they were breached, keeper Jonty Hoare made the necessary saves.

The single goal success represents back-to-back victories for the team who are back in action tomorrow (Saturday) with a trip to Torbay.