Sidmouth Town 2nds extended their current unbeaten run with a superb 3-0 win at Okehampton in the Devon & Exeter League, writes Jon Miller.

Typically, the long journey to North Dartmoor, poor weather and the threat of a heavy pitch leaves the travelling players flat. But bright, warm sunshine, a pitch in great condition and new dug outs raised the mood and led to a convincing away performance.

With key players away or with the first team, Ewan Badcock was promoted from the thirds after a string of good performances at centre back, and a makeshift front line with Harry Saunders leading the line, making a first ever start up front. Any anxiety for the managers with the new look side were quickly settled, Badcock solid at the back and Saunders causing headaches for the home defence. 

The pattern of the game was set early, Sidmouth holding possession and creating chances regularly, Okehampton limited to long range shots by the disciplined Sidmouth defence.

The creative Vikings’ corner routine reaped reward, Tom Nicholls benefiting for the third match in four with a powerful header. And the problematic Saunders quickly added a second, his strength and ball skills upsetting the Okehampton back line.

Frank Long added a third shortly after half time, his determination to win the ball leading to a short-range strike. 

Happy coach Criag Badcock declared: 'It was a very professional performance. A high work rate and a lot of quality football. We welcomed back Man of the Match Damien Armes, whose leadership and communication has been missed. The only issue being that the final scoreline didn’t reflect fully the one-sided nature of the match.” 

Next Saturday sees the team visit Crediton with the hope of continuing their lengthening unbeaten run.