Hall scores fine goal as Sidmouth Raiders net Under-14 League Cup success

Sidmouth Raiders Under-14s were 3-2 winners when they entertained Cullompton Rangers in an Exeter Youth League Cup tie.

Raiders, taking to the pitch for the first time since a humbling defeat seven days before, were good value for the success against a side that plays a division higher than them.

With their regular coach away, Richard Glanville stepped into the role and he saw the side serve up an organised first half display that ended with the game still seeking its first goal.

All that changed two minutes into the second half when a Cullompton player turned an in-swinging corner from the much-improved Jack Symington, into his own net!

The visitors responded well and scored from a corner of their own to level things up.

There was a feeling of injustice for the home side as there had appeared to be plenty of penalty area ‘pushing and shoving’ prior to the goal. However, Soren Hall swiftly restored the home lead when he first slid in to take control of the ball before setting off on a mazy run almost two-thirds the length of the pitch and, with the goal in sight, he drilled it home!

One again there was a strong response from the visiting side, but a wonderful save by Riders glovesman, and skipper, Thomas Craig, meant his side kept their lead.

That lead was increased when Findlay Hobday rifled home a free-kick. Luke Eggleton-Parr was unlucky not to add a fourth; his brave effort during a one-on-one with the Cully glovesman leaving him injured and unable to continue.

The visitors scored a late second, but Raiders were not to be denied and the team wish to place on record their sincere thanks, both to coach-for-the-day Richard Glanville, and their sponsors, the Filling Station.