Sidmouth Raiders Under-12s were edged out by a single goal on their visit to North Tawton for their latest Exeter Youth League game.

The game was played out in something of a windstorm!

Despite the conditions both teams put a great deal and an enthralling match of excellent football ensued.

Raiders played the ball on the ground with short, slick passes and dominate long periods, but the home side always carried a threat on the counter-attack.

Frank Long was once again in terrific form displaying his wide array of skills. However, the Raiders players found a home goalkeeper at the top of his game!

Wingers Jamie Salter and Freddie Dorman consistently got the better of their markers, but for all the adventurous play and creation of chances, goals were not forthcoming!

In the second half the home side began to enjoy longer periods of possession, but just as Raiders had found the home glovesman to be in top form, so to did the home strikers fine Ollie Keast, between the posts for Raiders, in similar style!

Keast was supported well by his defence, particularly Jack Goodman who read the game exceptionally and made some timely tackles.

Raiders were close to breaking the deadlock when Ned Selly went close.

With time running out the home side made a swift counter-attack become the game’s most important action as they scored the goal that gave them all three points.

Raiders were left to journey home wondering what might have been. However, they can go into their next game with greater confidence given the way they pay at North Tawton.