Okehampton A vs Taunton C.S. A

Civil Service struggled to find players this week and were a man short as they began the long journey to Okehampton. As a result, Taunton opted for an alternative to their standard formation, running a 4-4-1 with emphasis on the counter-attack.

The visitors showed promise early on, with an excellent aerial ball opening up Okehampton's defence. Mark Sawyer took advantage, neatly slotting the ball into the net. Shortly after, his pass would put Ed Davies through to take Taunton two nil up.

Civil Service retained their lead, playing well despite the numbers disadvantage. In defence, captain Ben Caile made stick saves from the goal line on two occasions, while everyone worked hard to cover the extra ground. Although Okehampton managed to score before half-time, Taunton felt confident at the break.

Expecting an early onslaught, the visitors instead took the opportunity to began the second half in strength, pressuring the ball and retaining a lot of possession. The home side were unable to penetrate the D in any force, often relying on big hits that sought the deflection; none connected. Their short corners were equally ineffective.

The game was sealed when Mark Sawyer scored his second, again building from a well placed aerial pass before the forward clinically beat the keeper in a one on one.

Civil Service played one of their best games of the season. Everyone worked to full capacity, pulling together to make up for the missing man. Okehampton were unable to cope with the aerial counter-attack, but equally, their own pushes splintered on a very strong Taunton defence and midfield that co-operated brilliantly.

Curtis Bradley was awarded man of the match.