Sidmouth Town 1, Galmpton 2

Yet again the Vikings lost out by the odd goal at Manstone in their search for three valuable points.

Town started brightly and took the lead on 15 minutes through Mike Stamp who was first to react to a loose ball in the visitors’ penalty area. Galmpton played some neat football but Town’s defence stood firm. Matt Rasmussen had his close range effort well saved by the visitors’ keeper and Alex Raistrick cleared off his own line at the opposite end. Half time was imminent when the Vikings lost possession in their own half and 10 seconds later Galmpton were level with Vikings’ custodian Burgess given no chance.

The second half saw few chances with Rasmussen firing over on 60 minutes and Galmpton hitting the bar on 75. Just when all present thought the game was heading for a draw the visitors capitalised on sloppy play and the visiting striker raced through the home defence to beat Burgess to the ball and squeeze home at the near post. There was still time for the referee to disallow Stamp’s effort as ball and keeper ended in the net in what looked a fair challenge.

Manager Paddy Thomas said: “The players are a great bunch and spirit is high, but we need to have more threat in the final third and sometimes our final pass lacks quality.

“The mistakes we are making at the back are being highlighted by our inability to create a lot of chances at the opposite end.

“We don’t have a game, but on Saturday the 2nd XI play Halwill home, 3pm KO, so we will use the break to try and strengthen the squad.”