The men’s fifth team travelled to East Devon for their opening game of the season, a friendly before the league starts on October 15 and went down by two goals to nil.

Although the team had to take to the pitch with only a kicking back, with no keeper available, the mix of youth and experience blended well to put East Devon under pressure on regular occasions.

Captain Steve Ellison set up an experienced back four, with five teenagers providing the engine room in midfield.

Throughout the game, the youngsters played with a skill that maintained the pressure on the East Devon team, which was unable to make many forays into the SOHC half.

On one of the rare occasions that the home side did mount an attack, they were able to take the lead.

The second half was a more even affair, with both teams heading up field and, despite some chances, the visitors lacked the killer instinct in front of goal.

East Devon extended their lead towards the end of the half to secure the victory.

Despite the defeat, there was plenty of cause for optimism for the SOHC fifth team, with the youngsters combining well with their more experienced team mates.