Bovey Victorious at Stoke
BOVEY Tracey made a massive statement in the title race for Division One East of the Carlsberg South-West Peninsula League, with an impressive victory at leaders Stoke Gabriel at the weekend, writes Tim Herbert.
Goals from Ollie Aplin and a Ryan Batley thunderbolt gave Bovey a 2-0 lead and, despite Batley later being dismissed and a consolation for Stoke, the visitors held on to inflict a first defeat in 13 games on their hosts.
It was a result that throws up an intriguing equation for Bovey, who are now nine points behind Stoke with four games in hand, so win them all and potentially win the league. However, it is never that easy and Bovey face another very tough away game at St Martins this weekend. Stoke, meanwhile, host Alphington.
Brixham moved into second place with a comfortable 3-0 success at Newton Abbot Spurs, who now begin a new era following the resignations of management duo Tim and Chris Porter a couple of days before the game.
Reece Somers scored first for the Fishermen, quickly followed by a tremendous free-kick from Robbie Bowker. Stuart Bowker sealed the 3-0 victory and Brixham are back on the road this weekend, travelling north to Ilfracombe, while Spurs welcome Honiton.
Teignmouth slipped to a second loss at the hands of Ilfracombe in the space of a week, going down 2-1 at home. The Teigns are at home to Sidmouth on Saturday, while Waldon have a tough test at Torridgeside but will be feeling better after ending a run of seven defeats with an excellent 4-1 triumph at Budleigh Salterton.
Liverton United went down 4-2 at Crediton United on Saturday and another big ask when they host Axminster on Saturday. The other weekend games ended in wins for Alphington and the University of Exeter.
