Sidmouth 3rd XI 5, Taunton Vale D 1

A FIRST home win of the season gave Sidmouth a valuable three points as they strive to preserve their South East District One status, writes John Goodwin.

The side’s defence was bolstered by the assured skills of Keith Baker and the return to action of Neil Coles, while added spark was added upfront by George Powell.

Powell was on hand to bundle the ball home after a good save had denied Chris Olive and Baker’s conversion of a short corner gave Sidmouth a 2-0 lead at half time.

Warned by skipper Stewart Vincent not to relax, the side maintained the pressure after the break and Powell and Baker both added to their personal tallies to provide more of a cushion.

Taunton provided little threat in attack and did not win a single short corner during the match, but got a consolation goal when a drive into the D was deflected into the roof of the net, giving James Plowman no chance.

Neville Evans, Simon Olive and George Mingo were regularly causing problems for the visitors’ defence and it was no surprise when Miles Warren finished off a move to complete the scoreline.

Tomorrow the side visit promotion-chasing Okehampton.