Sidmouth Under-9s, Raiders and Warriors, entertained Tiverton teams Twyford Gladiators and Twyford Spartans at St Johns School.

The Raiders started strongly in their first game against a well organised Gladiators team. David Clapp and Thomas Fletcher battled industriously in midfield and Man of the Match, Michal Bielawski, forced a fine early save from the Gladiators keeper.

As the first half progressed the Gladiators pushed forward scoring the only goal of the game. After the break Raiders created numerous chances, hitting the frame of the goal twice, but were unable to find an equaliser in what was a thoroughly entertaining contest.

The second match saw the Raiders take an early lead through Man of the Match Joe Anning, but a powerful Spartan side hit back the lead 4-1 at the interval. The second half saw the Raiders improve significantly with Oscar Parkinson and William Pulman shoring up the defence and the rest of the team working tirelessly, but unfortunately they were unable to find a way back into the game and succumbed to a 4-1 defeat.

Warriors kicked off their morning against a determined Twyford Spartans and dominated the first half playing some excellent football which saw them lead 3-0 at the break with Ben Elsom scoring a brace.

Unfortunately, against a small gale and a robust opposition, the second half saw Warriors pegged back for long periods. Despite what was a season’s best performance from Man of the Match Matthew Dunford, the visitors edged the contest.

Next up, against Twyford Gladiators, an assured display from the Warriors saw them play to their strengths. Man of the Match Tom Cload ran at the heart of the opposition defence and, with excellent support play from Toby Edmunds, and a resilient defensive effort from Callum French, the Warriors goal was rarely threatened. In the second half Twyford were forced back for long periods and, after a period of good possession and slick passing, Ben Elsom broke the deadlock. Young Elsom added a second late on the seal Warriors a 2-0 victory.