Sidmouth Junior Vikings Under-9 played their first match as a team when they took on Copplestone in an Exeter and District League meeting.

The team only began training under manager and coach, Dave Isherwood, at the end of July, and so the cloudy skies and long grass at Crediton were only minor concerns!

The team found themselves under immediate pressure from the first blow of the whistle, but some very brave defending by Kai Prendergast and Charlie Carstairs in the first few minutes ensured that Copplestone knew they needed to work hard.

The strong defence by the Vikings was further enhanced by Ben Gale in goal, who managed to anticipate well, and prevent a number of high and fast shots from hitting the back of the net.

The pressure continued into the second half, with Freya Horler, who was working very hard up front, sustaining a minor ankle injury in a game which was played with passion by both sides.

There was an interesting incident midway through the second half when a high ball left the pitch, and landed on the head of a surprised player on the adjoining field, who was concentrating hard on his own game!

In the last five minutes of the match, Copplestone managed to score twice, but an extremely good first performance by the newly formed Vikings team.

The second game began shortly after the first against an experienced Crediton side. The Crediton goalkeeper had to react instinctively very early on following a hefty and accurate strike by Herbie Isherwood, who began working very effectively up front with Freya Horler to put the Crediton defence under pressure.

Once again, Kai Prendergast demonstrated his courage and footwork with some excellent defending, supported by Michael Byrne who delivered some excellent and strong clearances.

Ben Gale drew further very positive comment from the opposition’s supporters following an excellent save against a high strike which was dipping dangerously below the cross bar. Both Freya and Herbie tested the Crediton goalkeeper who had to make some finger tip saves, and Freya rattled the post. In the dying minutes, Crediton organised themselves well, slipped through the defence and scored.

But once again, a very strong performance from this new team who clearly have a great future.

There were two nominated for the Man of the Match award, Kai Prendergast and Ben Gale.