Sidmouth 3, Marine Academy Plymouth 0 Sidmouth played host to MAP in a re-run of last years County Under-14 final that had seen the DJM League side win handsomely, writes Paul Newberry.

Going into tie Sidmouth’s management had a game plan that clearly worked as they began powerfully with a high-tempo approach looking not to allow the visitors to settle into the contest.

The approach paid dividends when, from Connor Murphy’s early corner, skipper Jamie Newberry struck to thump the ball home.

Not content with that Sidmouth were quickly back onto the front foot and, when a Freddie King free-kick was parried by the glovesman, Jack DeWinton was on hand to knock the ball into the net.

Marine rallied, but Sidmouths defence of Newbery, Dylan King, Jonny Surtees and Alister Forsyth were equal to the best they had to offer.

With Joe Miller, Alex Stone and Tyler Wellman taking control of the middle third it was no surprise when a third opportunity to net was fashioned! DeWinton saw his shot handled in the area, but the spot kick was missed!

This sprang Marine back into life Sidmouth goalkeeper Jack Sellick made some big saves whilst Newbery launched himself at a corner and deflected the ball onto to the crossbar and half-time arrived with Sidmouth grateful to hear it!

Fresh legs were introduced after the beak with the introduction of Todd Beanlands, Ben Miller and Ed Doble.

This allowed Sidmouth to keep the momentum they had gathered earlier in the game. The decisive third arrived after King sent Jonny Dunn away and his first time shot flew into the back of the net.

Marine powered back, but more fresh legs in the shape of Tom Orchard were introduced as Sidmouth saw the game out in a degree of comfort to bag a last eight berth.

This was arguably the finest team performance by this set of players in the past three years.