Devon Premier Cup Plymstock 4 Sandford 1

SANDFORD AFC First team made their first round appearance in the Devon Premier Cup on Saturday, September 9, when they travelled to Plymstock in South Devon. 

On a really hot day it was always going to be who could survive the hot and draining conditions. 

The home side are in a league higher than Sandford, who started well and were coping well.

Sandford had a couple of efforts in the first six minutes then in the seventh minute Plymstock scored against the run of play 1-0.

The home side started to come into it more and Sandford’s young keeper Jeb Mussel was called upon to keep the score down. 

Halfway through the first half, the game was halted for a drinks break which both sides needed desperately. 

Sandford tried to up the pace and on the 38th minute Danny Carroll dragged the ball back and shot with his other foot at an open goal, only to see a defender head the ball over. 

Just before half-time Plymstock shot over the bar and on 44 minutes Sandford had a goal bound shot saved. Half-time arrived with a 1-0 scoreline to Plymstock.

On reflection Sandford had the most chances but again couldn't convert them. 

The second half started with the away side desperately looking for the equaliser only to be caught square at the back again leaving poor Jeb helpless to prevent the second goal, making it 2-0 to Plymstock. 

In the 53rd minute Sandford had a player brought down in the box and were awarded a penalty, which Sam Reeves dispatched into the right hand corner, making it 2-1 to Plymstock. 

A raid down the Plymstock right saw a great block by stand-in full-back Matt Slee. 

The heat was taking its toll on both teams and another water break was awarded. 

Sandford had given their all and the home side made several substitutions which proved too much for the away team who conceded two more goals before the final whistle. 

The final score was Plymstock 4 - Sandford 1. 

A brilliant effort was made by all the players concerned, who were physically and mentally drained due to the heat. 

Sandford put up a great fight against a team in a higher league. 

The second team where at home against Bampton who they lost to in their opening game of the season. 

Unfortunately they couldn't reverse the score from that game which they lost 1-0. 

The final score being a 1-1 draw.

On Saturday, September 16, the First team have a day off and the Seconds will be at Pinhoe and Whipton with a 3pm kick-off.  

Good luck boys. 

A J H