Sidmouth Warriors Under-11s went down 5-2 in their home game against Heavitree Eagles.

Warriors, without three key players, got off to a good start and some terrific link-up play involving Lucas Vicary and Lucas O’Connor ended with the latter seeing the Heavies goalkeeper making a fine save.

With the Warriors’ defence, organised superbly by the impressive Jamie White, the game looked set for a goalless first half until the Exeter side put together a slick breakaway and clinical finish and then a lapse in the home defensive ranks allowed the Heavies to double their lead just before the break.

Being 2-0 down at the interval was harsh on the outstanding Oscar Finch in the Warriors’ goal.

Early in the second half, Warriors found themselves right back in the contest when, following some excellent midfield play from Laurence Coles and Vicary, O’Connor rifled the ball home.

Warriors began to dominate, but they were hit twice when (and on both occasions it was down to poor defending) the Exeter side added two further goals.

Warriors continued to press and found Seamus Kent tirelessly pressing forward and their attacking efforts were rewarded when O’Connor provided the assist for Archie Melville to score.

It was Heavitree, though, who had the final word, netting their fifth and final goal of the match.

Warriors coach Andrew O’Connor could not fault the hardworking effort from all his 10 players.

The Warriors Man of the Match award went to the deserving Lucas O’Connor.