6 April 2012
South Devon League, Herald Cup Semi Final, at Ipplepen Athletic
Newton Abbot Spurs reserves 0 Watcombe Wanderers 1 aet (att 284)
Watcombe reached the league cup final for the second successive year after a deserved win against a team who play one division higher.
Despite the gap between the sides, the only surprise was that Watcombe didn't score the game's only goal until four minutes into extra time. They were much the better side, but failed to take chances, while Newton Abbot dug in and spent most of the game defending. That said, they had a few chances of their own and the Watcombe keeper was in good form to keep them at bay.
The outcome might have been more decisive had Watcombe been awarded a first half goal when the ball may or may not have crossed the line. I couldn't tell from where I was standing, but Watcombe fans were convinced it was a goal. They should have doubled their lead in the closing moments, but a penalty was saved.
Ipplepen Athletic's Moor Road ground was a fitting venue for what was a very entertaining game. There's a modern clubhouse and changing rooms, and the pitch is fully enclosed by wooden fencing.
South Devon League, Herald Cup Semi Final, at Ipplepen Athletic
Newton Abbot Spurs reserves 0 Watcombe Wanderers 1 aet (att 284)
Watcombe reached the league cup final for the second successive year after a deserved win against a team who play one division higher.
Despite the gap between the sides, the only surprise was that Watcombe didn't score the game's only goal until four minutes into extra time. They were much the better side, but failed to take chances, while Newton Abbot dug in and spent most of the game defending. That said, they had a few chances of their own and the Watcombe keeper was in good form to keep them at bay.
The outcome might have been more decisive had Watcombe been awarded a first half goal when the ball may or may not have crossed the line. I couldn't tell from where I was standing, but Watcombe fans were convinced it was a goal. They should have doubled their lead in the closing moments, but a penalty was saved.
Ipplepen Athletic's Moor Road ground was a fitting venue for what was a very entertaining game. There's a modern clubhouse and changing rooms, and the pitch is fully enclosed by wooden fencing.
Really enjoyed reading this. Watcombe beat Premier champs Upton Athletic last year (when in Div 3), and now face current Prem leaders Buckland Athletic Reserves in the final. It's at Coach Road, Newton Abbott on 18th May. Try & get down if you can!
ReplyDeleteI can't make the final, but I did visit Coach Road when it was Newton Abbot's home ground. Watcombe impressed me, and I expect they'll be pushing for promotion to the Premier Division next season.
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