1st Team Vs Torbay 1

North Devon 1sts travelled to Torquay to face a strong Torbay 1st team, who are the reigning league champions. The reds were facing a bit of an injury crisis, with stalwart centre back Matt Brown out with a knee injury, and Captain David Orr struggling with a calf problem. However, these issues weren’t obvious in the opening exchanges, with a well drilled pairing in defence of Mike Cuthbertson and Ben Andrew shutting down any Torbay movement forward, allowing Sam Kirkness and Ash Thorne in midfield to spring forward in attack. Orr missed a gilt-edged chance to break the deadlock midway through the first half, swiping and missing a great cross from strike partner Pete Smale with only the keeper to beat. However, the team’s persistence paid off with a slick attacking move started from the back, a cross coming through their players and bundled in by Smale.

Halftime came and the Reds started to retreat, allowing Torbay more of the ball. Chances were still coming and a fortunate tackle from the Torbay defenders denied Orr a goal. The resultant penalty corner however was a textbook training ground move, with Sam Kirkness playing a lovely one-two with Ben Andrew to finish with aplomb. Torbay came at North Devon with everything they had, and were fortunate to be awarded a penalty stroke which ‘keeper Sam Wormington was powerless to stop. With a huge amount of determination the reds held on for a gritty victory, and find themselves second in the league and currently undefeated!

Next weekend North Devon host Caradon 1st XI at Park School, 2.30pm start.