Popples edged out in nine goal cup thriller

Newton Poppleford were involved in an extraordinary Bill Slee Cup tie, one that they emerged from as losers by the odd goal in nine.

For the first time in four games the Popples did not conceded inside the first five minutes! However, they did fall behind to the first Axmouth corner of the game – a free header planted firmly past Neil Wood in the home goal.

Matt Tett, Man of the Match the week before went from ‘hero-to-zero’ as he conceded a penalty that gave the visitors a 2-0 half-time advantage.

For the second week running the half-time chat clearly hit the spot for the Popples were a different proposition in the second half!

Matt Rasmussen took centre stage scoring a 20-minute hat-trick – the best of the trio a 40-yard strike that arrowed its way into the top corner of the Axmouth net.

The visitors hit back with a free-kick to level things up and then slotted another penalty to lead 4-3.

The Popples character came to the fore once more and Jarek Solomonov levelled things.

As the game moved towards extra-time the Axmouth striker broke free. Popples glovesman Wood came running out and both players slid into the challenge and the ball struck the oncoming player and looped up and over the pair and into the net, much to the delight of the visiting supporters.

There’s more cup action for the Popples tomorrow when they entertain Honiton Reserves in the Devon Senior Cup (2pm).