Taunton CS v East Devon B

The opening game of the league saw TCS take on East Devon B who were also promoted last season.
East Devon started the game the better team. TCS, who looked like they had just woken up, could not retain any possession let alone break into the opposition half. Thankfully the cobwebs slowly faded and TCS started to make use of their possession and started to impose some authority on the fixture. With the scores still level after the first 15 minutes Ben Witt received the ball on the edge of the East Devon “D” and having ridden one tackle managed to let off an reverse stick shot the found the goal. TCS looked to kick on from that point and continued to exert pressure on the visitors. The East Devon keeper, having made save was unable to clear the ball and Lee Slade, showing impressive generosity for a forward passed the rebound back to Tom Loveluck (who had only been on the pitch two minutes) who calmly buried the ball past the outstretched keep for TCS to double their lead. With half time imminent TCS were looking for a third when the East Devon keeper took both the ball and Mark Sawyer out. Mark took exception to this and in his fragile state “leant” leant on the keeper to get to his feet which the opposition keeper took great offence to. Needless to say both received green cards.

Half time came with the skipper venting his frustration at the slow start to the game. The works were taken on board as shortly after the re-start TCS were awarded a short corner which was dispatched to the top corner by Simon Jones. TCS always looked comfortable and were able to break down any East Devon attacks. With the game entering its final stages TCS found time for one further goal; a Ben Witt shot which was saved by the keeper was picked up by Mark Sawyer who flicked the ball into the goal.

The game finished 4-0 to the home side who can be encouraged with the result however can be in no doubt that they will need to maintain and improve the level of performance having been promoted last season. M.o.M went to Ben Witt for his goal and being able to inject some pace into TCS’ attacking plays. D.o.D went to Mark Sawyer for his “rough and tumble” with the opposition’s goal keeper.

Team was as follows;
Miles Cave, Jason Harris, Harry Elsmore, Ben Caile, Ali Johnston (c), Simon Jones (1), Jim Smith, Ben Witt (1), Jesse Mooney, Lee Slade, Mark Sawyer (1), Toron Everret, Tom Loveluck (1), Fin Porter.