Colaton Raleigh have finished their season on a real high after gaining a well deserved victory over Senior Division 2 opponents Sidmouth Town Reserves, writes Ken Woodsford.

Colaton Raleigh have finished their season on a real high after gaining a well deserved victory over Senior Division 2 opponents Sidmouth Town Reserves, writes Ken Woodsford.In doing so, Riki Pitter's team have created a little bit of history, as this was the club's first winning cup final since their formation in 2004.The first half was a closely contested midfield battle with defences in control. Ben Hawker, who was faultless throughout, and Dan Haydon, were particularly impressive as they snuffed out the potential goal thr�eat of Sidmouth Town strikers Matt Rasmussen and Jack Lewis.Colaton Raleigh went on the offensive from the start of the second period, and Jordan Cooper had the ball in the net twice but ruled out by 'pushing', and 'off-side' decisions. Hugh Cort in the Sidmouth goal kept the scores level with several good saves. He was eventually beaten by a cross shot from Adrian Parr, but the ball hit the far post and bounced clear.Colaton Raleigh continued pressing and, with Sidmouth defending stoutly, finger nails were being chewed in both camps.Sidmouth's resistance was finally broken after 75 minutes, when Riki Pitter curled in a shot from 25 yards to put Raleigh 1-0 ahead.On 82 minutes Adrian Parr made it 2-0 when he volleyed in a fierce shot from the edge of the area to make the game safe and secure a first cup final victory for Colaton Raleigh.The sportsmanship and spirit displayed by both teams was of the highest order, and a credit to their managers and their respective clubs. Player-Manager Riki Pitter was awarded the cup final Man of the Match trophy for his goal and influential display in Raleigh's midfield.He said: "There cannot be a better way to end the season. Our last game was the best and most memorable of the lot. "A big thank you to all the players, to my assistant manager, Wayne Harris, and the team behind the scenes, particularly Cliff and Julie Cooper. Many thanks also to our supporters for a season to remember."Colaton Raleigh cup final squad: James Santer, Damian Armes, Ben Hawker, Dan Haydon, Shaughn Lewis, Adrian Parr, Olly Paget, Richard Rapps, Riki Pitter, Tony Cox, Jordan Cooper, Mark Gerry, Paul Dowling, Connor Macallum, Darren Bennett, Andy Aust, Gavin Cann.