Crediton United 2 Teignmouth 0

WHEN Crediton play Teignmouth, it is always a close and hard-fought affair.

This outing was no different, and although Crediton were deserved winners, this game was always going to be close.

After only two minutes, a magnificent double save from Ethan Chalk, who has had a superb season, kept Teignmouth from opening the scoring and this would prove pivotal as the game proceeded.

Crediton seem to be conceding early at the moment so it was of paramount importance the score remained 0-0.

With the returning captain Aidan Whitfield imperious at the back alongside the always-influential Kevin Pike, Crediton began to take control of the match.

Sam Stapleton had a good effort saved and almost immediately Crediton scored the opening goal as a good move was finished by Lukey White, whose shot dribbled into the Teignmouth net.

It was 1-0 to the Kirton squad after only five minutes.

These teams have very contrasting styles, and Crediton’s passing game was in stark contrast to the determined but more long-ball orientated tactics from South Devon.

Docteur Silly was up front for the home side, although he struggled to dominate against a robust defence, but he did have a good effort saved.

Then, a splendid build-up from the home side resulted in a great effort from Callum Woodman, whose shot was well saved.

Docteur Silly was now showing how quick he was and on more than one occasion was sent crashing to the ground by an opposing defender.

Though both teams battled away, there was little in Crediton who led at half-time. Teignmouth’s long-ball game had produced very little in scoring opportunities.

Substitutions were made early in the second half, and then in the 68th minute after an incisive ball from defence, Dave Lee glanced the ball goalwards and it flew into the net giving Crediton a 2-0 lead that they richly deserved.

Lukey White had a great chance to make it three, but the ball escaped him.

The Teignmouth management team were entertaining throughout and they constantly used language as a means of presumably influencing the referee who was having none of it.

The referee in fact booked the pair of them much to the amusement of supporters sitting on the stand.

In the end this was a fine win over a side full of determination but without the extra flair that is sometimes required.

Next up for Crediton are Newton Abbot Spurs, who may prove a tougher nut to crack.

Well done to Dan and the lads. The Crediton players were Chalk, Stephens, Knight, Lee, Whitfield, Woodman, Warren, Silly, White, Stapleton and Bond. Substitutes were Ord, Burwood, Tootell, Metherell. The man of the match was Aidan Whitfield.

Paul Whittall