Sidmouth Town 1, Alphington 1 A late goal was conceded for the second game running to deny the Vikings a seasons’ double over the Alphas.

On another gem of a Manstone Lane surface (thanks to the industry and craft of Ken Mortimore), Town made a confident start and took the lead on 22 minutes with Jake Boyland the scorer.

Soon after Boyland brought the best out of the visiting glovesman. In an end-to-end contest Vikings keeper Robbie Powell was also in the thick of the action looking every inch the class act he is!

Nick Gingell provided a superb free kick that Mike Stamp guided into the corner only for the Alphas keeper to make another superb save, and half time arrived with Town holding a one-goal advantage.

The second half produced similar fare with Town looking comfortable. Stamp drew a fine save from the visiting keeper before, with just two minutes left a miss-hit shot evaded the defence for Tom Bath to tap in from close range to bring the scores level. A minute later it almost got worse when a free header was gifted to the Alphas just yards from goal, but Powell pulled off a stunning save.

Boss Paddy Thomas said: “The players gave their all. Given Alphington’s recent run we would of course have accepted a point. If there’s one thing need to learn it’s the need to finish teams of when we hold the upper hand. The players spirit and fitness levels are good, many spectators felt last year we would of lost that game and so from that we must take positives.£

Tomorrow Town entertain Exwick Villa (2.15pm).

After the game the Vikings are holding a bumper Christmas meat draw.