MONDAY, May 20 saw Sandford AFC’s second year in the Exeter and District Premier League come to an end when they took on Exeter University Seconds in an evening match.

After last Saturday's downpour which forced the abandonment of the home game after less than half-an-hour, the Sandford pitch at the King George’s Playing Field was in a remarkable condition and there was no sign of water at all for our 6.30pm game.

The visitors kicked off, playing towards the village, and the first attack for Sandford saw midfielder Levi Burt hit a cracking right-foot shot which cannoned of the crossbar.

The Exeter University Seconds team came more into the match and Sandford had to thank young goalkeeper Jed Mussel for keeping them in the game with some confident saves.

With 18 minutes on the clock Sam Reeves saw his shot again hit the crossbar.

Sandford drafted in Kerion Smith upfront, replacing the injured Owen Gregory, and on 22 minutes he headed wide from an Alex Buckingham cross.

On 27 minutes Bucks went down clutching his leg.  We hoped he was alright as we had no subs.

Manager Ben Waller was playing in the back four alongside Lloyd Phelps, a first-time partnership but playing well together.

The "ford" had several chances but again were let down by poor finishing which they were punished for in the 37th minute when the University side took the lead, 0-1 at half-time.

The second half started and the "ford" were more lively.

On 47 minutes a Sam Reeves shot was pushed over the bar, then midfielder Jack Perry had shot just over.

The visitors’ fitness and skill in passing was becoming more prominent and after more Sandford misses the visitors increased their lead, 0-2.

Another Sandford attack saw a Sam Reeves shot just go over the angle.

Then, on 67 minutes, a mistake in the Sandford back four led to another University goal, 0-3.

On 69 minutes right-winger Steven Dymond cut inside and hit a left-footed shot into the visitors goal, 1-3.

A few minutes later Kerion Smith had another chance but failed to take it.

University's fitness was telling now and they were controlling the game.

On 78 minutes a breakdown the right wing led to them scoring their fourth goal.

When the final whistle came the score was 1-4 to Exeter University Seconds.

This was Ben Waller’s last game as manager as Murray Smith is taking over next season.

From a spectators view I would like to thank Ben for all his tireless work with the team.

The way they have fought all season is a credit to you. Thanks Ben.  

See you all next season. 

A.J.H.