Sidmouth Town began life in the South West Peninsula League, Eastern Division in fine fashion with a well deserved 2-1 win over visiting Civil Service.

The Vikings looked up for the battle from the first whistle and quickly took control of the game, looking well organised and moving the ball confidently around the Manstone Road pitch.

It was no surprise when, in the 31st minute, Andrew Thompson put Town ahead with a fine goal, knocking the ball past the defender before thundering a shot in the corner of the net.

The visitors, to their credit, never gave up, and, just before halftime equalised from a corner to send the sides into the break at 1-1.

The Vikings began the second half powerfully and were soon back in front when Russ Coombes powered home what proved to be the deciding goal.

Both teams had chances to score again but it was Sidmouth who deservedly banked then three points.

Coach Jason Stilling was understandably very proud of his teams effort and had nothing but praise for them all, saying: “We have had a bit of an up and down pre-season, this was the perfect start for us and important that we got three points, we looked in control throughout the match and I’m pleased for the players it was a great team effort. Dan Tavender was immense today and covered so much ground he deservedly earned the man of the match award. Also I would like to thank the supporters for their backing we had a good 92 people turn up and we all appreciate that”.

Sidmouth football club committee issued the following statement:

Following a number of years of great success at Sidmouth Town AFC and after much discussion with both co-managers, Paul Ashford and Phil Margrett, about the future working arrangements for managing 1st Team affairs in the coming season, Paul Ashford, last week, tendered his resignation as joint 1st team manager.

The Club Management Committee met this week to review and consider all the factors surrounding the management of the 1st Team and concluded that in the best interests of everyone concerned and to enable the Club to move forward it would accept the resignation of Paul Ashford and ask Phil Margrett to step down from his role as joint 1st team manager.

The club wishes to place on record its profound thanks to Paul and Phil for all they have achieved at Sidmouth Town and wish them both well for the future.

Club Secretary

Sidmouth Town AFC

25 August 2011

The Vikings are back in action Wednesday with an East Devon derby when they travel to Sector Lane Axminster (6.30pm kick-off), to meet a Town side who lost their opening game 7-0 at Crediton United last Friday night.