Sidmouth Town FC 2, Appledore 3

SIdmouth Town’s frustrating season continued on a wet Saturday at Manstone. With their opponents occupying a mid table berth this was an opportunity to gain a first win after their string of single goal defeats.

Town took the lead after 10 minutes when a long ball from keeper Jack Burgess found Matt Rasmussen and he drilled in the opener. Appledore slowly began to find their feet and were causing the home defence plenty of problems.Both keepers had cause for concern before Appledore struck on 35 minutes to level the tie.

The second half saw an even contest with Rasmussen and Aidy Parr keeping the visiting defence busy. However, it was the away side who got the important second goal, closely followed by a third as Town were caught napping.

To their credit the Vikings kept at it and, a minute from the end, Parr crossed in a free kick for Alex Raistrick to power in a header on his farewell appearance.

Manager Paddy Thomas said: “The players still need to learn the basics as that is what lets us down each week. Burgess will have better days than today, collectively we made errors, only his are highlighted due to his position.

“Effort, determination and courage we have in abundance but it only takes you so far. We looked dangerous going forward but shaky in defence and our final ball isn’t good enough.

“Alex is relocating due to work commitments and the skipper will be badly missed as he has been outstanding for us but, looking on the bright side, it gives opportunities for others to step forward and replace him.We wish him well.”

Next up for Town is a basement battle with Crediton United away 3pm ko on Saturday.