Sidmouth and Ottery Hockey Club’s men’s fifth team went into the festive break still undefeated and 12 points clear at the top of the division.

Sidmouth and Ottery Hockey Club’s men’s fifth team went into the festive break still undefeated and 12 points clear at the top of the division.

This follows a 4-1 home win against Ashmoor last weekend. The home side had already recorded big wins against the visitors in this season’s two previous encounter but came up against an improving side.

Despite this, the fifths have been playing with confidence and scored their first goal with Steve Harris striking the ball within the area, which was deflected in by a defender.

The lead was extended when Matthew Offer-hoar, who was returning to the club after several years, beat the keeper with a strong shot going in at the far post.

Somewhat against the run of play, Ashmoor pulled together a fast-flowing move to score, to make it 2-1 at half time.

Captain Andy Dockley called on the team to get back to its passing game and the side responded with some good moves throughout the second half. Steve Ellison added to the goal tally with a good individual run, before Rob Wilson completed the scoring with another well-taken shot. With Isca losing, the fifths extended their lead at the top of the table and will next be in league action on January 13.