Ottery St Mary produced one of their finest displays of the Devon Football League season to sweep past lowly Fremington with a 3-0 victory.

The Otters were defensively sound throughout, demonstrated admirable patience against a stubborn opponent and scored three quality goals, with man of the match Jack Hobday a constant menace to Fremington.

Hobday finished the game with a brace and Connor Swingler was also on target, as Fremington found their cause damaged even further by a red card for Nat Gunn. It was a great result for Ottery and a perfect response to the defeat at Newtown a week earlier.

An understandably delighted Ottery manager Pat Curtis told the club website: “It was a great performance from the lads, and I’m so proud of their reaction after a loss last weekend.

“The game plan was almost to sit back and make sure we defend well for a clean sheet, as it is such an important thing, so I was chuffed for the lads at the back yesterday because they were outstanding from start to finish.

“With us setting up with a solid defensive shape, I knew with the quality we have going forward, they would be able to express themselves and create chances, which they took.

“The lads did everything with a purpose and took care of the ball, we were more direct when we needed to be and more aggressive in possession, so, all in all, I’m buzzing for them.

“I think in football it always comes in waves and when you’re maybe not getting the rub of the green, it’s important to keep positive, keep working hard and stick together.

“Another reason I’m so happy with our performances in the last few weeks is that the lads have all stuck together and worked hard for each other, pushing each other and the environment at the moment is great.”

Ottery’s momentum faces a huge challenge this weekend, as they travel to league leaders Beer Albion. It will unquestionably be a big task for the Otters but, on this evidence, Beer are in for a proper game.