M of M

Sidbury Utd U12's got their season off to a winning start with a home victory over Pinhoe. Sidbury started well and soon began to dominate the game with their attacking football.

Cody Northcott saw his shot go narrowly wide and Ben Logan had a shot go just over the bar. Pinhoe were being pinned back in their own half and with United winning a succession of corners it seemed just a matter of time before they scored. Man of the Match Scott Redman split the Pinhoe defence with a delightful through ball which the speedy Todd Lewendon latched onto and cooly finished with a low drive into the far corner.

Sidbury never let up the constant pressure and added to their lead with the move of the game, after a succession of passes United had switched the ball from the left over to the right, Georgie Hathaway and Todd Lewendon played a neat one-two and the ball was put into the box for Billy Penwarden to neatly volley the ball home to give United a deserved 2-0 lead.

Connor Long, Aaron Pearse, Cody Northcott and Ben Logan were strong and confident in the Sidbury defence, keeper Daryl Young was his normal steady self and both Kieran Murphy and Billy Read were putting in strong performances in midfield.

Pinhoe began to create chances and cause some problems for United in the second half, United went looking for a third with Kai Fletcher coming close twice, Billy Read saw his shot hit the underside of the bar, Todd Lewendon done all the hard work only to see his shot go agonisingly wide.

Sidbury finally scored through Kai Fletcher but Pinhoe hit straight back with a strike which left keeper Daryl Young no chance to make it 3-1. Aaron Pearse then launched a rocket of a shot which dipped over the keeper and into the back of the net to restore Sidbury's three goal lead. Substitute Daniel Greenland put in a fine display at the back, but as United seemed to take their foot off the pedal toward the end, Pinhoe pulled another back.

Scott Redman almost made it five but was unlucky to see his shot hit the post, but all in all Sidbury United should be pleased with their all round play, and a 4-2 victory with the knowledge that the score could have easily been a lot more convincing.

M of M

Sidbury Utd put in a massive performance against a very strong and well organised Crediton side, this was a very entertaining game to watch with both teams playing some fantastic football.

Sidbury had a lot of the possession in the first half but were finding it difficult to break down a very good Crediton defence, however they did come close to opening the scoring on a few occasions when Todd Lewendon, Ben Logan and a Toby Bouganeau header all tested the keeper.

The "Seagulls" defence of Ben Logan, Aaron Pearse, Connor Long and Daniel Greenland were excellent and all played a massive part in the game. The midfielders battled well and linked well with the forwards. However it was Crediton that very nearly went into the break with the lead, but keeper Daryl Young was relieved when their shot came back off the inside of the post and was cleared by Connor Long.

Early in the second half saw the Crediton keeper pull off some good saves as Kieran Murphy and Harry Wright went close. However it was Crediton who opened the scoring after breaking down the left and culminated with a Crediton player side footing the ball into the Sidbury net from close range.

Instead of letting their heads drop, this seemed to make the Sidbury players more determined. They all showed great spirit and were justly rewarded when Man of the Match, Harry Wright chased in, what looked like a lost cause but the keeper seemed to panic and no matter how fortunate Wright knocked the ball passed the keeper, to give the Seagulls a deserved equaliser. Typical of the way Wright played, he just did not give up on anything and battled for everything all game, as did Georgie Hathaway on the right of midfield.

It was not long before the Sidbury players were celebrating again after Scott Redman put them into the lead after some prolonged pressure in and around the Crediton area, Redman's shot beat the keeper. Second half subs Kai Fletcher and Cody Northcott had a great say in matters in the last ten minutes. Fletcher made some great runs down the left, winning numerous corners and keeping the pressure on.

It was from one of these corners that the ball came out to Cody Northcott who took one touch to put the ball onto his left foot and let rip from just outside the box, leaving the keeper no chance and giving Sidbury a 1-3 lead. The boys showed a lot of guts and great belief in each other to come from behind and win this game.

Well done lads.

M of M

A slightly depleted Sidbury team were beaten by a very good Okehampton side in this entertaining encounter. The Seagulls had the better of the earlier exchanges but could not quite make that all important breakthrough. Okehampton then began to come more and more into the game and created several chances of their own.

The Sidbury defence of Ben Logan, Connor Long, Aaron Pearse and Toby Bouganeau were coping very well until a injury to left back Connor Long forced the already bare bones Seagulls outfit into a reshuffle. Okehampton took full advantage of this and took the lead during this transformation and went into the half time break 1-0 to the good.

Early in the second half Okehampton made it 2-0 with a very well taken goal. However the Sidbury boys heads did not drop and almost from the restart Billy Penwarden played the ball through to Todd Lewendon who beat his defender and finished with his usual deadliness. Sidbury then began to press for an equaliser and came close on a couple of occasions, the best of these came from a Billy Reed corner which was flicked on, only for the Okehampton keeper to make a great save on his own goal line.

Harry Wright and Todd Lewendon battled all game up front for Sidbury with little reward, Kieran Murphy who switched from midfield into a makeshift left back done very well. Midfielders Georgie Hathaway and Kai Fletcher worked tirelessly and contributed much to the game.

Nonetheless with Sidbury pushing forward in search of a goal they were always left open to the counter attack, and indeed they were punished by a Okehampton break and a great shot from outside the box which left keeper Daryl Young no chance.

Usamah  Elmaghady came on for his league debut. United continued to go forward and were awarded a penalty when Harry Wright was bought down in the box, Toby Bouganeau cooly smashed the ball into the left corner to make it 3-2. Sidbury continued to press but time eventually run out on them.

With all things considered, the boys battled bravely and gave their all but on the day were beaten by a very well organised Okehampton side.

M of M

A spirited second half comeback was not quite good enough to see Sidbury get at least a deserved point in this very entertaining match, which saw both sides give their all.

Sidbury started well and certainly created the earlier chances but with the counter-attacking style of Exmouth they were always going to be dangerous. Todd Lewendon was thwarted by a great fingertip save from the Exmouth keeper, after a great move down the right involving Georgie Hathaway and Harry Wright.

Exmouth struck twice in quick succession, the first was a near post effort and the second was a great strike into the bottom right corner. For all their possession, "the Seagulls" just didn't get the rub of the green and found it difficult to create any real clear cut chances, and went into the half time break 0-2 down.

Early in the second half left back Connor Long went off injured and was replaced by Cody Northcott, who is a more attack minded option and so it proved when Kieran Murphy went down the left found played the ball into the area and was cleared but only to Northcott who smashed in one of his trademark left footed strikes. Sidbury found some new momentum, with Aaron Pearse marshalling the main Exmouth threat, Ben Logan and Daniel Greenland coped well with anything else that came their way.

George Harwood made a very good league debut in the midfield second half, and Kai Fletcher also made an impact when he came on. By now Sidbury were now laying siege to the Exmouth goal, Harry Wright, Todd Lewendon, and Billy Reed all had efforts saved. Sidbury were then awarded a penalty for hand ball, which the unflappable Toby Bouganeau cooly converted. Back deservedly on level terms it now seemed that Sidbury would get at least a point out of the game, and were very unlucky not to nick all three when some neat passing down the right led to a fantastic pass into the box, but with the goalkeeper already beaten somehow nobody got a touch onto it.

Exmouth were awarded a penalty with just two minutes left which was slotted into the corner leaving the hapless keeper Daryl Young no chance and Sidbury pointless. A lesson I'm sure the boys will learn from, and surely our change of luck must surely change soon. All in all a great second half display from the lads, and one that they need to carry over into Saturdays match against Heavitree.

M of M

The Seagulls run of bad luck continued against Heavitree, who with their one shot on goal somehow run out 1-0 winners. However  Heavitree were helped by some poor finishing from Sidbury and an excellent performance from their centre half.

The first half was a bit scrappy with Sidbury playing the better football, but neither side creating any clear cut chances, until that is, Heavitree took the lead from a free-kick which wasn't cleared and a Heavitree player reacted first and tapped the ball into the net from close range. Ben Logan, Daniel Greenland, Toby Bouganeau, Aaron Pearse and Connor Long were comfortable at the back and really didn't do much wrong all game.

Sidbury did seem to be a bit mis-jointed in the first half, with the change of personnel being tried out new positions, even so they can count themselves unfortunate to go into the break one nil down.

The second half though was a different matter with Billy Reed, Kai Fletcher, Harry Wright, Kieran Murphy, Cody Northcott and Todd Lewendon all coming close to getting on the score sheet. George Harwood gave another impressive performance as did Scott Redman in midfield. Keeper Daryl Young had a good game between the sticks. The match in the second half was nearly entirely played in the Heavitree half, but as chances came and went, again it was not to be United's day.

To win matches you've got to turn  possession into goals, and that is what we are missing at the moment. Almost as frustrating as watching England. I'm positive our fortune will soon change. So come on boys, let's start playing.

M of M

Sidbury Utd got back to winning ways with this hard fought victory away to Culm Utd, a match where both teams gave their all and contributed greatly to a very entertaining game.

Sporting their new home strip Sidbury started brightly and created some early chances, much of which were being created by the Sidbury midfielders. Scott Redman tirelessly hassled in the middle of the pitch. It was Harry Wright who eventually gave the Seagulls a deserved lead with a great shot midway through the half.

There was some great tackles being made by the Sidbury defence, Ben Logan, Daniel Greenland, Aaron Pearse and Connor Long battled for everything and all turned in good performances. Sidbury did not have it all their own way not by a long chalk, Culm are a good side and put in a very good account of themselves.

Sidbury began the second half like they had started the first, but it was Culm who levelled the scores when keeper Daryl Young was lobbed and could only manage to get one hand to the ball. Sidbury continued to put Culm under pressure, when their keeper managed to tip Harry Wrights shot onto the bar, and a Todd Lewendon shot hit the inside of the post, it seemed as though it was going to be another one of those days. Man of the Match Billy Reed put Sidbury back in front with a low driven shot, but that lead was short lived when Culm were awarded and converted a penalty.

Kai Fletcher done well on the left and George Harwood is proving to be an asset on the right side of midfield. Move of the match was down the left when Cody Northcott beat his marker and passed the ball to Kieran Murphy who turned his defender and cut the ball back to Matt Broom who's shot narrowly went wide. With just eight minutes left on the clock Billy Reed struck again to give Sidbury a 2-3 lead and a much needed, and deserved victory.

A great effort well done boys, now with some very tough matches coming up lets get back to playing the fluent football that we all know that you are capable off.

M of M

Sidbury Utd had a convincing win over Pinhoe that will see them face West Exe Athletic in the next round of the cup. The Seagulls started brightly and immediately were putting the Pinhoe goal under constant pressure forcing the Pinhoe keeper to pull off a couple of fine saves.

Scott Redman opened the scoring for Sidbury when his shot from just inside the box found the bottom corner of the net. Kieran Murphy added a second after a fine solo run down the left before beating the keeper with a low left footed drive at the near post. It was soon 3-0 after some very neat footwork inside the box saw Harry Wright beat three tackles before slipping the ball cooly past the keeper.

Pinhoe pulled a goal back, before Todd Lewendon latched onto a great throughball, beat his defender and then totally flummoxed the Pinhoe keeper with a superb dummy before putting the ball into an empty net. A delightful finish to watch. George Harwood had a great half and was involved in everything on the right side of the pitch and did a fine job as a stand in left back in the second half.

Sidbury were without usual keeper Daryl Young, so Toby Bouganeau and Cody Northcott bravely volunteered and had a half each between the sticks. Aaron Pearse was immense throughout, not only at the back but all over the pitch. Ben Logan was also having a blinding game at right back until he had to come off with an injury. Tackle of the match has to go to Scott Redman whose solid sliding tackle not only saw him get up with the ball at his feet but then set up another Sidbury attack almost resulting in a goal.

Daniel Greenland was his usual solid no nonsense self in the Sidbury defence but Pinhoe pulled another goal back early in the second half to make the score 4-2. Toby Bouganeau set up Kai Fletcher who finished well to restore the Claret and Blues three goal lead. Billy Reed added a sixth with another well taken goal. Pinhoe scored again as Sidbury seemed to take their foot off the pedal for a while.

Matt Broom had a shot which the keeper managed to get his fingers too, the ball looked like it may still go in, but the alert Kai Fletcher reacted first and got the touch which made sure it did, so with the score now at 7-3 came the goal which caused much delight for the Sidbury players and parents when still suffering from injury Connor Long came on with just two minutes to play and with Sidbury about to take a corner, the ball was headed clear but straight to Connor who smashed the ball home with his first touch of the ball. A very inspired substitution indeed, Mr Manager!.

Well done lads a good display.

M of M

A very good team performance saw Sidbury Utd become the first team to take points off Stoke Hill and end their 100% league record. It was a very entertaining match with both sides playing some very good attacking football which really was a joy to watch.

Sidbury started very well and had the better of the opening exchanges and created the better chances early on. The starting back four of Daniel Greenland, Aaron Pearse, Ben Logan and Cody Northcott knew they had to be at their best and they did not disappoint against the league leaders.

Scott Redman and George Harwood saw their shots go narrowly wide. Billy Reed had another good game in the centre of midfield and whose vision helped set up the Sidbury opener when the in form Todd Lewendon saw his shot beat the Stoke Hill keeper. Sidbury continued to apply pressure, but a team as good as Stoke Hill are always going to create chances and are a constant threat with their slick football. Midway through the half they equalised with a well taken goal.

Sidbury again took the lead when Todd Lewendon was put through on goal, the keeper did well to stop his first effort but the ball fell kindly for him and he finished well. Harry Wright was a constant nuisance to the opponents defence throughout the match and is such an important part of the team whose partnership with Todd Lewendon is paying dividends.

Stoke Hill equalised early in the second half with a cracking shot high into the top corner of the net. Aaron Pearse almost put the Seagulls back in the lead when his free kick went narrowly wide. Kieran Murphy swapped the left side of midfield to play as a stand in right back for the majority of the second half and did a very good job. Toby Bouganeau also helped bolster Sidbury's defence in the second half. Even when under the cosh Sidbury kept their composure, heads and the ball very well and played their way out of trouble.

Daryl Young pulled off two magnificent saves which earned him the man of the match award, both looked certain goals but he managed to get to both efforts, superbly tipping one over the bar, and the other he was even better save which he turned around the post.

As we know football today is a squad game and youth football is no different, Matt Broom, Kai Fletcher, Connor Long, and George Hathaway all played their part whether or not they got on the pitch of play. Both teams had chances to win the game at the death but maybe a draw was a fair result as neither side really deserved to lose such an entertaining game.

Well done lads, this is the commitment and type of football that is required to win games in this league, you should be proud of yourselves, lets keep it up.

M of M

Sidbury Utd's inconsistant start to the season continued when they suffered an away defeat at the hands of West Hill, who seem to have become a bit of a bogey side for the boys. Sidbury started well enough but again found it hard to turn possession into goals, although they came close on a couple of chances early on, it soon became apparent that it was not going to be their day.

As chances came and went, I think, so did the Sidbury teams confidence. With passes going astray and first touches not as good as usual, the boys football began to suffer.  Midway through the half Sidbury conceded two quick goals which they never really recovered from.

West Hill added a third early in the second half which I felt was a flattering scoreline but one that the boys must learn from, that if they are not all on top of their form, they will concede and lose games in this tough league. With that said and done the boys did rally in the last quarter of the game. Pulling a goal back and almost scoring another, which just added to the "what if's" at the final whistle.

I think it was just one of those games when nothing seems to come together, panic settles in and the boys forget to make the ball do the work for them. So, although this was probably not the best of performances the boys have got to take something from it, and turn them into positives.

So come on lads, I know you can do it.

M of M

A depleted Sidbury Utd took to the field away to high flying Tiverton Town and really done themselves proud, despite being beaten 3-1 the patched up side gave Tivvy a real game.

Sidbury started really well and matched Tiverton in every department early on, Aaron Pearse put Sidbury into an early lead after 15 minutes with a long range shot that dipped over the Tivvy keeper, not much later and Matt Broom almost put United two up but saw his shot saved well by the keeper. Cody Northcott was playing well until he had to come off, he bravely came back on late in the second half, which I think epitomised all the boys attitude's today.

Tivvy played some excellent football throughout the game and equalised midway through the half and added a second five minutes later, both were well taken leaving keeper Daryl Young no chance, who it should be said was excellent between the posts and pulled off some great saves. Sidbury had a chance to equalise just before the break when Billy Reed was bought down in the Tivvy box, but their keeper pulled off a great save from Toby Bouganeau's penalty. So Sidbury went into the half time break 2-1 down.

Midfielders Scott Redman, Billy Reed and Kieran Murphy worked tirelessly throughout the game, the latter having to fill in at left back in the second half and his overall performance earned him the Man of the Match award, and even though not 100% Ben Logan put in a stirring performance. Aaron Pearse and Daniel Greenland were immense at the heart of Sidbury's defence and played out their skins.

Tivvy added to their lead with what looked like a soft penalty, but was taken brilliantly. Sidbury did not let their heads drop and continued to put Tivvy under pressure, coming close on a couple of occasions. Stand in striker Connor Long was a constant menace to Tivvy defence and Jamie James done well on his debut.

So with five first team regulars short, and another three players not 100% match fit, having only one sub, goes to show what a good performance the boys gave against the league leaders. Sidbury really showed the spirit and determination which was lacking last week, so well done lads and thanks.

M of M

This was an entertaining game which saw both teams play some great football. There was plenty of action at both ends of the pitch, and chances came and went for both sides. It was an evenly matched game which was decided by some great finishing from the lightening quick Lympstone striker.

Having said that it was Sidbury who took the lead midway through the first half. A good move down the right by Sidbury, saw Harry Wright put a great throughball to Billy Reed, who managed to get a shot at goal from a narrow angle which took a deflection and ended up in the Lympstone net.

Scott Redman was unlucky to see his effort go narrowly wide, after a great solo run. Lympstone equalised with a well taken goal ten minutes before half time. However Sidbury thought they had retaken the lead when a Lympstone defender sliced his clearance from Ben Logans pass, Todd Lewendon latched onto the loose ball and cooly put the ball in the net. Only to be ruled offside.

Fifteen minutes into the second half Sidbury's defence was in disarray after injuries to Cody Northcott, Aaron Pearse and Ben Logan. Lympstone managed to score two quick goals during this transition period. Toby Bouganeau now had three stand in defenders playing alongside him. A couple of Sidbury heads dropped for a brief spell, but they gradually managed to get themselves back into the game.

Keeper Daryl Young played well and pulled some very good saves. Kieran Murphy now playing at right back put a great through ball to Todd Lewendon, who was very unlucky to see his shot hit the post. Matt Broom saw his shot go close. George Hathaway battled tirelessly on the right of midfield. Then Aaron Pearse managed to pull a goal back for Sidbury.

Jamie James and Kai Fletcher also had a say in the game when they came on, but this defeat now puts Sidbury into the bottom four, and some hard work is now called for to get themselves out off this situation, but it's a challenge I'm sure the boys are well capable of achieving. All they have to do is start believing in themselves.

M of M

Sidbury United had to come from behind to win this great cup tie against West Exe Athletic, a game in which both sides contributed fully, and should be applauded for their efforts.

West Exe started the better of the two teams, and were playing with confidence. Whilst the Sidbury defence of Aaron Pearse, Toby Bouganeau, Ben Logan, and Cody Northcott gradually stamped their authority on the game, there were some lapses of concentration all over the pitch early on, which I felt contributed to West Exe's well taken opening goal.

George Hathaway and Scott Redman were their normal busy selves in midfield, and contributed well as Sidbury slowly started to recover from going a goal down. West Exe keeper pulled off a great save from a Cody Northcott shot. Sidbury went close on a couple of other occasions as they started to take control of the game. Midfielders Kieran Murphy and Billy Reed had goal bound shots blocked by defenders, as Sidbury piled on the pressure in search of an equaliser. Sidbury keeper Daryl Young pulled off a blinding save towards the end of the half to keep the score at 0-1 at half time.

The second half began as the first ended, with Sidbury going all out for that goal. Bolstered by having George Harwood now on the right and Connor Long in the centre of midfield, Sidbury really began to turn the screw. Although at times it seemed that lady luck was certainly favouring West Exe, after some great blocks and goal line clearances kept Utd at bay.

Sidbury finally managed to get a bit of luck when a shot was deflected straight into the path of unmarked Harry Wright who made no mistake in finding the back off the net from 10 yards. This seemed to really lift the Sidbury spirits, and you sensed that they would score again. Aaron Pearse made a great run forward with the ball found Harry Wright who in turn tucked the ball neatly into the side netting to give Utd the lead. Todd Lewendon was a constant threat up front, and on another day would have scored a brace.

The Sidbury substitutes Matt Broom, Jamie James, Kai Fletcher all helped the cause when they came on. However West Exe really came back strong in the last 5 mins, and except for a last ditch tackle and a goal line clearance both by Toby Bouganeau they would surely have equalised.

So all in all this was a great cup tie, and a tribute to both teams. Sidbury now must take this new found confidence into their league form.

M of M

Sidbury United and Okehampton played out a fantastic, entertaining game of football, which was a pleasure to watch. With both sides doing enough to win the match, and neither deserving to lose, then I believe a draw was a fairest result.

Both teams had chances to break the deadlock early on, Ben Logan and Billy Reed both had their efforts on goal blocked. 

Stand-in goalkeeper Toby Bouganeau was great between the sticks, and with Ben Logan, Cody Northcott and Daniel Greenland all putting in good solid performances in the Sidbury defence. Scott Redman and his second half replacement Matt Broom both battled hard in midfield. However it was Sidbury who went one nil down, when Okehampton scored after a goalmouth scramble.

When Georgie Hathaway was bought down in the area, Billy Reed stepped up and smashed the ball into the left bottom corner, for Uniteds equaliser. The rest of the half was a very even contest.

Okehampton retook the lead in the second half with a great move down the left which flat footed the Sidbury defence. Sidbury battled hard to get back in the game, Man of the Match Aaron Pearse was immense all over the pitch. Sidbury counter attacked when Kieran Murphys quick through ball, put Todd Lewendon through on goal who buried the ball beyond the advancing keeper.

Sidbury dominated for long periods in the second half and were unlucky not to get a third when with just 8 minutes remaining Todd Lewendon hit the post with a half volley from a Connor Long corner. Having said that Okehampton went pushing for a winner late on, and really tested the Sidbury defence.

So a fair result and a great game, where both teams made the ball do the work, and used every blade of grass on the pitch. Both teams should be proud of their performances.

Special thanks goes to Jamie James who was Uniteds unfortunate unused substitute

M of M

Sidbury United kept a clean sheet for the first time this season and scored twice, very late into the game to gain all three points. It was not the greatest Sidbury performance, but their commitment and energy could not be faulted.

Man of the Match Daniel Greenland was solid at the heart of the Sidbury defence. Ben Logan and Cody Northcott are also back to their consistent best. Sidbury had a lot of possession, but found it difficult to test the Crediton keeper. Shots being blocked, scuffed or even totally miss kicked. It seemed that United having played some good football in the build up, then panicked when in front of goal.

Keeper Daryl Young had an excellent game pulling off a very good save towards the end of the match, but it was his commanding of his area that really stood out. Scott Redman, George Hathaway and Kieran Murphy worked tirelessly in midfield and battled for everything.

Todd Lewendon and Billy Reed caused the Crediton defence problems, but the final touch just seemed to elude them. So the teams went into the half time break at 0-0.

The second half was very similar to the first, George Harwood made a big difference when he came on and Sidbury seemed to have a better balance to it. Jamie James and Kai Fletcher also made a contribution as second half subs. For all their huff and puff, it looked like this game had 0-0 written all over it.

Until that is after some late pressure from Sidbury resulted in a couple of corners, the second of which Connor Long put in an excellent ball which Aaron Pearse rose and met well, heading high into the right corner of the net, to break the deadlock with just minutes left. United were very fortunate in their second goal a minute later, when substitute Toby Bouganeau finally scrambled the ball home via the post, after a goalmouth scramble. Maybe lady luck has decided to favour us after all, which would make a nice change.

All in all it was a closely fought contest which both teams contributed to, and Crediton can hold their heads high and consider themselves unlucky to concede so late on.

With three long awaited points in the bag, now is the time to start to push on in the league. Well done lads and Thank you to Usamah Elmaghady and Matt Broom who were the unused subs this week.

M of M

Sidbury United bowed out of this seasons cup competition after a great game away to in form Tiverton Town. A very entertaining match in which both sides should be applauded for their commitment, attitude and spirit. Tiverton play great football, and their confidence is high from a near on exemplary league season thus far, Sidbury however have had an up and down season and although their league position does not do them justice, their confidence has suffered. So this was understandably a game of contrasting styles, but a fabulous cup tie all the same.

Sidbury soaked up some early Tiverton pressure, with Ben Logan, Toby Bouganeau, Connor Long, and Daniel Greenland all putting in good solid performances in the United defence. Then fifteen minutes into the game Aaron Pearse thundered Sidbury into the lead with a great strike from just outside the area.

Tivvy equalised from a corner which Toby Bouganeau did well to volley, only to see his clearance take a wicked ricochet which ended up in the Sidbury net. Having said that their was no luck involved in the Tiverton second goal, a great strike from the edge of the box, a quality finish to put Tivvy 2-1 to the good.

With the welcome return to the Sidbury attack to Harry Wright, who was a constant threat up front. Sidbury began to claw their way back into the game. Then from another Sidbury free kick, Billy Reed helped the ball on with a deft volley which wrong footed the Tivvy keeper and found the back of the net. So half time whistle went with the sides level at 2-2.

Scott Redman, Kieran Murphy, George "Fozzy" Harwood and George Hathaway all worked their socks off in midfield. Tiverton almost re-took the lead when with the keeper beaten, and the ball goal bound, Kieran Murphy managed to slide in and clear the ball off the line. Todd Lewendon came on as a second half sub, and his pace added to the Sidbury attack. Matt Broom had to quickly adapt to the pace of the game when he too came on. As the game went on Sidbury had more and more of the game. The Tivvy keeper pulled off a marvellous save in the last 10 minutes to keep the scores level

Sidbury thought they had won the game in the last minute when they had the ball in the net, but it was judged to be off-side. So with just a matter of seconds remaining and extra-time looming, Tivvy broke straight through the middle, rounded the keeper and dealt United a devastating blow, with a well taken match winning goal. Despite United conceding three goals keeper Daryl Young had another good game between the sticks, and is proving to be an asset.

With United nearly with a full squad a special mention to the lads who didn't get on, Jamie James and Kai Fletcher, thanks for your support and attitude.

So a disappointing result but a performance which the boys can hold their heads high, and carry over into the remaining league fixtures. Excellent game lads, I'm sure I'm not alone when I say I'm proud of you all.

M of M

Sidbury Utd were made to work extremely hard for this win away to Pinhoe, Sidbury found it difficult to break down a very determined Pinhoe side. Although Utd played with a totally new look to the left side of the team, it should not have caused the confusion that it initially seemed to.

Daniel Greenland steadied the Utd defence and is now an extremely influential, reliable player, and I think would be one of the first names on the team sheet. Midfielders Scott Redman, George Hathaway and Billy Reed battled, and pressed well the entire game. Sidbury were finding it difficult to turn possession into goals.

With just 10 mins of the first half remaining, a great move started with Billy Reed picking the ball up in midfield, he slid a pass to Todd Lewendon who beat his defender and cooly put the ball into the path of Harry Wright who smashed the ball home. Sidbury had a couple more chances to score following moves down their right side, but were unable to make the best of the final ball.

The second half was much the same, Aaron Pearse was his normal reliable self, covering every blade of grass on the pitch. Kieran Murphy went on a great solo run from his own half, a quick one-two with Todd Lewendon only to see his final effort tipped round the post. United had several other chances

Centre half Toby Bouganeau had to replace keeper Daryl Young after he came out and bravely saved at the feet of the Pinhoe striker, Bouganeau pulled off a great save towards the end, well done mate, I know you were a bit reluctant, but you saved the day. Kai Fletcher did well when he came on, almost making an instant impression. Jamie James too, got on in the right of midfield and did well.

Ben Logan can consider himself extremely unlucky when he smashed a shot from well outside the box only to see it thunder against the Pinhoe bar. Harry Wright now playing at centre half scored a cracker from the edge of the box, a great strike that gave the Pinhoe keeper no chance, 0-2 to Utd.

Pinhoe pulled a goal back straight from the restart with Utd still with their minds elsewhere. It was an entertaining game, which both sides played with a great attitude. Looking at it from a Sidbury perspective it was a scrappy win, but with 3pts in the bag, it's nice to win ugly once in a while.

Usamah Elmaghady was the unused sub and deserves a pat on the back from everyone.

M of M

Sidbury Utd can count themselves extremely unlucky coming away from this match empty handed, because they matched the league leaders in every department throughout the game and given a little of Stoke Hills fortune then the result could have easily been reversed.

United had to soak up some early Stoke Hill pressure, but with the midfield of Scott Redman, George Hathaway, Billy Reed and Kieran Murphy all battling for everything, Sidbury gradually started to get themselves into the game. In fact it was United who had the best two chances of the first half.

Harry Wright saw his volley come back off the Stoke Hill upright, and when George Hathaway put Harry Wright through on the edge of the box, he cut the ball back for Todd Lewendon who saw his shot go agonisingly wide. The second half saw Sidbury take the lead from an Harry Wright strike.

Ben Logan, Aaron Pearse, Daniel Greenland and Connor Long were outstanding at the back, with Connor Long earning my Man of the Match, he did not give an inch and is turning into a very valuable member of the team. Toby Bouganeau on as a substitute made two fantastic goal line clearances, one with his right foot and the other with his head. Sidbury keeper Daryl Young had another great game, but stood no chance when midway through the half Stoke Hill equalised from the penalty spot.

Stoke Hill scored again with about ten minutes to go, a good move was rounded off with another bit of good fortune after Daryl Young bravely dive at the strikers feet, only to see the ball ricochet back into his path and into and he passed it into an empty net.

Jack Murrell come on as a sub and made a big impact on the game. Sidbury nearly equalised twice late on, Harry Wright hit the top of the bar, and from a corner a glancing header went narrowly wide.

Stoke Hill are a good footballing side, and certainly the tallest we have come across, add to that their physical element and you have all the ingredients of a great side. So with that in mind, Sidbury can surely take the positives from this defeat knowing in their minds that they played a very good side, and run them extremely close. Well played lads, and all with a great sporting attitude too.

Thank you also to Kai Fletcher and Jamie James who were the unused subs.

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For the second week on the trot, Sidbury Utd played one of the leagues joint leaders and gave a very good account of themselves. However two lapses in concentration cost them dearly, against an extremely good and talented Tiverton side.

Both teams started brightly and knocked the ball about well, but as Sidbury began to take control it was Tiverton who took the lead when one of their players did well to get round the back of the Sidbury defence, he then squared the ball for it to be tapped in from close range.

Uniteds defence of Aaron Pearse, Daniel Greenland, Ben Logan and Connor Long showed a good mature attitude the way they regrouped, and again proved what a solid unit they can be. With Daryl Young bravely saving at the feet of a Tivvy player on two occasions, United steadied themselves and started to play some good football.

Ten minutes into the second half Sidbury were back on level terms when Scott Redman equalised after some great work down the right, Harry Wright got round the back and put the ball straight into his path. A very good goal and great to see Scott getting back to his best. Now Sidbury had the bit between their teeth, Todd Lewendon latched onto a wayward pass but his shot hit the side netting. Scott Redman went closer again, but it was not all one way traffic.

Kieran Murphy done well when he got back and cleared a certain goal off the line. Billy Reed, George Hathaway, George Harwood and Toby Bouganeau  battled for everything throughout the game.

A misunderstanding at the back and Tiverton took the lead after a great solo run by their striker with just five minutes remaining. Sidbury pushed everyone up in search of an equaliser, and were dealt a cruel blow when they were hit on the break again with another well taken goal. So yet another game where the "Seagulls" have came away from a match pointless when they have deserved so much more.

Every member of the Sidbury team should be very proud of the commitment, and determination they showed today. It was a great game to watch, played in a tremendous spirit and a massive credit to both managers. Kai Fletcher was the unused Sidbury sub.

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Sidbury United had to reshuffle their back four for the visit of St Martins, Kieran Murphy dropped into the left back position, with Man of the Match Connor Long moving into the centre half role along side Aaron Pearse and with Ben Logan on the right of the four, it all seemed to work very well as Sidbury notched up a very welcome victory.

Both teams started off brightly and were knocking the ball about with confidence, and both sides created some early chances. Sidbury played a 4-3-3 system in the knowledge that this was a must win game. It also meant that the midfield trio of Scott Redman, Billy Reed and George Harwood had to put in massive performances, and they did not let anyone down.

Todd Lewendon showed his change of pace when he latched onto a lovely through ball, kept his nerve well and cooly beat the keeper to put Sidbury one up. This seemed to spur Sidbury on, and they really grew in confidence. Jack Murrell was a constant menace to the St Martins defence. There was a bit of fortune to Uniteds second,  Harry Wright showed great persistence and was rewarded for his hard work when the ball finally crossed the line via the post and bar.

So into the second half with a two goal cushion and Sidbury coped well and soaked up all that St Martins threw at them. Daryl Young was faultless between the posts and fully deserved his clean sheet. Sidbury put the game beyond doubt with a very well taken goal, after some great play down the left, Harry Wright took an extra touch which enabled him to flick the ball up and then lobbed the keeper.

Connor Long was unlucky not to make it four when his lovely left footed shot hit the bar, and Kai Fletcher was unlucky not to get on the score sheet when he came on as a substitute. Other second half subs Jamie James, George Hathaway and Matt Broom all contributed well when they came on. So it was Sidbury who came out on top in a very entertaining game, well done lads.

A special thank you must go out to all the parents of both teams who put in the time and effort to make these mid week fixtures possible.

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This was a very open and entertaining match which could have easily gone either way, played in the best of spirits, it had two fantastic goals, goalmouth scrambles and some superb saves.

Sidbury Utd knew tonights game against fourth placed St Martins would be a tough one, and they certainly were not disappointed. Utd started brightly and were quick to start causing St Martins problems down the left. Both teams had some early chances to open the scoring, but were unable to beat the keepers.

George "Fozzy" Harwood came agonisingly close on two occasions before Sidbury did take the lead. What a goal it was too. Aaron Pearse took a throw in, had the ball knocked back to him, he then passed it to Billy Reed who slipped through a delightful pass to Scott Redman who had made a great run and arrived at the edge of the area to curl the ball into the far corner.

Harry Wright latched onto a rare mistake and put Sidbury two goals to the good, with about ten minutes of the half remaining. St Martins then put Utd under immense pressure and were rewarded just before half time when they pulled a goal back.

St Martins scored a great equaliser in the second half after a great run down the left and a cracking shot into the far corner left the keeper no chance. Sidbury heads did not drop, and they got themselves back in the game. Man of the Match Scott Redman picked up the ball in his own half and went on an amazing run only to be thwarted by the keeper. Billy Reed had his shot superbly saved. Jack Murrell also went close.

Connor Long made a great goal saving tackle, in fact all the Sidbury defence of Ben Logan, Daniel Greenland and Kieran Murphy done their jobs well. Daryl Young was outstanding between the posts, as was the St Martins keeper.

Sidbury substitutes were George Hathaway, Kai Fletcher, and Matt Broom. It was a very even game where both teams had done enough to win the game and neither deserved to lose, so when the final whistle went at 2-2, I think it was a fair result. Certainly a point gained more than two dropped. Well done lads.

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Sidbury Utd managed their first ever win over West Hill who have proved to be a bit of a bogey side in the past. Sidbury were definitely up for this game, and were quick to force it's pace.

Ben Logan, Kieran Murphy, Daniel Greenland and Connor Long were solid at the back, and dealt well when the Sidbury goal was threatened. Fozzy Harwood was unlucky not to open the scoring when his shot came back off the bar. Jack Murrell seems to be settling in well, and it was he that opened the scoring with his first goal for Sidbury. United piled on the pressure and were unlucky not to add to their lead.

However West Hill equalised with a well taken goal after a swift counter attack. Minutes later and Harry Wright restored Sidburys lead. West Hill equalised again just after the break when a shot from outside the box dipped over keeper Daryl Young. Sidbury then started to boss the game, and some of their build up play was a delight to watch.

Billy Reed was great in midfield, and Harry Wrights first touch and holding up of the ball deserves a mention. There was some excellent pass and move football, particularly down the left side. Sidbury were showing some great vision, Aaron Pearse was dictating things well, and Sidbury were beginning to show signs of their old selves.

Man of the Match Scott Redman gave Sidbury the lead for the third time with a well struck shot. A shot from Kieran Murphy almost went in. Scott Redman then added a fourth to ensure Sidbury took maximum points from the game. In terms of chances created, vision in the passing, and running off the ball, I think it was our best attacking performance of the season.

Thanks to the subs Toby Bouganeau, Kai Fletcher and Usamah  Elmaghady, a great performance and a pleasure to see some of the boys coming back to their best.

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On the evening before going away on tour, I believe maybe the boys minds were not fully focused on this important relegation match. Credit to Heavitree who came and out battled us for every ball.

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This winner takes all game had everything and is a real tribute not only to the teams involved but also to the league they play in. Sidbury Utd needed a point to secure their place in the top division, on the other hand Culm Utd needed a win or they would go down. So it was always going to be a tense and nerve racking morning.

Both teams started brightly and were knocking the ball around well but it was the defenders who had the better of the early exchanges. Kieran Murphy, Ben Logan, Daniel Greenland and Connor Long held firm and were confident at the back. Clear cut chances were few and far between. Harry Wright was carry a groin strain so Todd Lewendon replaced him and made an instant impact when he broke the deadlock minutes before half time.

The second half had everything, excitement, good football, controversy, mistakes, and plenty of goals. Culm equalised very early into the half, which seemed to make them grow in belief. Sidbury seemed to panic and within minutes it was 1-2 when Culm took the lead.

Sidbury steadied themselves and went in search of an equaliser. Midfielders George Hathaway and Billy Reed went close before Jack Murrell latched onto a cross and beat the keeper to make it 2-2. Virtually straight from the kick off Culm retook the lead when their player took full advantage of a mistake, and scored.

Now facing relegation themselves Sidbury rallied and threw everything at Culm in search of an equaliser. With just 6 mins remaining Jack Murrell was bought down in the area and a penalty awarded. Aaron Pearse with the whole world on his shoulders, bravely stepped forward and showed great character when his low shot found the corner of the net 3-3.

Two minutes later it was 4-3 when Culm got hit on the break from a Sidbury counter and Todd Lewendon, back to his best, kept his cool and beat the keeper.

Sidbury keeper Daryl Young was immense throughout this game, whilst Scott Redman and Toby Bouganeau both played their part, and it was great to see Cody Northcott  back in a Sidbury shirt after his injury lay off. George Harwood again proved what an asset he is, reliable and solid.  A very emotional day for both teams, and an extremely entertaining game of football.

Lastly I would like to add our best wishes to Culm Utd, who in our opinion are a Div 1 side and the league will be weaker without them. Surely something the League could consider is a play-off system between 3rd bottom Div 1 and 3rd top Div 2. That way the Division will remain at it's strongest.