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brixham town ronald cup

Rams Eye Ninth Herald Cup Win While Brixham Town Lift the First Divisional Cup of 2022

ALL WHITE ON THE NIGHT: Brixham Town lift the Ronald Cup with a 3-2 victory over Totnes and Dartington. © Al Macphee/MiraclePR

In an exciting week of South Devon Football League action, Kingsteignton Athletic booked their place in the Herald Cup final, while Brixham Town lifted the Ronald Cup, their second trophy in as many seasons.

Division One title hopefuls Kingsteignton Athletic put in a solid, clinical performance against Division Two standouts Ilsington Villa at The Rec last Wednesday night, winning 3-1. They will play Plymouth-based Premier Division outfit The Windmill in the Torbay Clearance Services Herald Cup Final, which will take place on May 20th, also at The Rec.

The game could have turned out very differently had Dan Langford’s lobbed effort, just four minutes in, hit the target. Instead, the ball crashed agonisingly against the crossbar and was cleared from the goal-line by the Rams defence. After that early scare, Kingsteignton quickly settled and got stronger as the half wore on. Having already threatened from several set pieces, Kingsteignton opened the scoring on 22 minutes when Sam Barnes powered a header from a free-kick past Connor Gibson.

Mark Voisey doubled their lead in the 34th minute. Following some impressive midfield play, Voisey received the ball on the right before smashing it into the far corner of the goal. Just as Kingsteignton looked to be getting on top, goalkeeper Jay Osborn picked up a foot injury following a clearance, leading to a four minute pause in play. Ironically, Villa scored during first half stoppage time, Matt Warman pouncing after the Rams had failed to clear a cross.

Ilsington had the bulk of the chances at the start of the second half, with both Dan and Jack Langford threatening, but Kingsteignton had a huge chance to extend their lead when they were awarded a penalty an hour in. Gibson saved Barnes’ initial spot kick, but the referee ordered a retake, only for Gibson to beat away Barnes’ effort again. With just over 20 minutes remaining, a Kingsteignton player went down on the edge of the box. The referee consulted his linesman but, to Kingsteignton’s frustration, they were only awarded a free-kick. Five minutes later, it was Villa’s turn to complain. Dan Langford unlocked the defence by dribbling into the box and laying off to a teammate. A last ditch challenge by Louis Dickinson brought him down, but the referee denied Villa a penalty. Voisey then sealed the win in the 81st minute with another clinical finish.

The action switched to Stoke Gabriel and Torbay Police F.C. the next evening, with Brixham Town taking on Totnes and Dartington for the Bettesworths Estate & Business Agents Ronald Cup, the first of the league’s divisional cup finals.

Tots were looking to make amends for last season’s final loss against Brixham, and they soon found themselves in front, capitalising on a nervous start by the Brixham defence. Goalkeeper Cam Atkinson had already gifted Totnes a chance in the opening minute, forced into making a goal-saving tackle after missing a clearance. Two minutes later, he could only watch helplessly as a defensive blunder and unlucky deflection sent the ball goal-wards, Jake Osman bursting through to hasten its journey towards the back of the net.

Two goals in as many minutes turned the first half tide. On 31 minutes, James Spriggs’ save fell at the feet of Ben Ford who made no mistake with his shot. Immediately after the restart, Stuart Pointon’s deflected shot put Town in front. It looked as if Brixham would go into the second half with their noses in front, but Sam Ingham had other ideas. Four minutes into first half stoppage time, he fired a superb shot into the far corner of the net to level the scores.

Tots almost took the lead on 65 minutes, following another defensive mishap, but a determined Brixham Town defender drew cheers from the crowd with an impressive last ditch challenge to avert an almost certain goal. At the other end, there then followed a classic case of players not playing to the whistle. As both sets of players looked to the referee to make a decision on an incident, a Brixham player lobbed an effort towards goal. The ball hit the bar, but had it gone in, the goal would probably have stood.

Jordan Baxter and Jake Osman then had good chances to put Tots ahead, but it was Brixham who found a winning goal, Pointon receiving the ball on the edge of the box and hitting the target.

On Saturday, Brixham AFC Reserves passed up a golden opportunity to reclaim top spot in the Torbay Clearance Services Premier Division when they lost out 5-1 at home to East Allington United. Two goals apiece from Josh Pascoe and Aidan Corcoran, and a single from Matt Bodman earned the Pirates the points. Luke Manuell with a consolation for the Fishermen.

Leaders Buckfastleigh Rangers are now within touching distance of the title, but with trips to both The Windmill and Elburton Villa Reserves to come, there could be more twists before the end of the season. Villa, who play Salcombe this weekend, celebrated a vital win over Watts Blake Bearne, Scott Allen with both goals. The Windmill are also still in with a slim chance of the title following their home walkover against Meadowbrook Athletic. They will have to beat Buckfastleigh on Saturday to keep that dream alive. Brixham travel to East Allington United in their penultimate game.

Away from the title fight, Harrison Hardy scored twice as Ivybridge Town Reserves beat Salcombe Town 3-1 at Erme Valley. Alex Henniker also found the net for the Ivies, with Dominic Nott on target for the Crabs.

The Division One title race also opened up a little with Paignton Saints Reserves losing their unbeaten record at home to Upton Athletic. A Charlie Rowe brace, and a strike from Sam O’Mara helped Upton to a 3-1 win, moving them off the bottom and into positive points for the first time this season. Aaron Knapman scored for Saints.

As Saints stumble, Kingsteignton appear to be galloping into the final straight. The Rams scored eight without reply at Kingskerswell and Chelston, Ollie Kewell with five goals and Nathan Isaac, Jason Jones and Lewis Plackett also on target.

For now, Waldon Athletic and Chudleigh Athletic Reserves still occupy the top two spots. The Clarets didn’t play, but Chudleigh won 5-2 at Beesands Rovers. Gavin Hammon scored twice for the visitors, and he was joined on the score-sheet by Jordan Armstrong, Matthew Briant and Matthew Williams; Jack Eades and Thomas Harvey netted for the Bees. Liam Yeates and Harry Atkinson scored for their respective sides as Buckfastleigh Rangers Reserves drew 1-1 with Paignton Villa.

A Pete Summerfield hat-trick helped unbeaten Division Two leaders Torquay Town to a sixth league win on the bounce, Town beating Barton Athletic Reserves 6-0. Simon Ross doubled up and Jamie Chamberlain also netted. Ilsington Villa bounced back from their cup heartache with a 2-1 win at Babbacombe Corinthians, Matt Warman and George Harris on target.

Elsewhere, a Sam Pyne hat-trick and Oliver Riches brace saw Watcombe Wanderers secure a 5-1 win at Ipplepen Athletic Reserves; Newton Rovers lost 2-0 at home to SGT Police Reserves and bottom club Paignton Villa Reserves warmed up for their Fred Hewings Cup semi-final against Chudleigh Athletic Thirds with a 3-2 victory at Dartmouth AFC Reserves, their second away win on the spin. Jack Wilkinson scored twice for Villa, with Joshua Barker their other goal-scorer. Oumar Rujbally and Richard Yeo responded for Darts.

In Division Three, Christian Williams scored both of Chudleigh Thirds’ goals in their 2-0 home win over Paignton Saints Thirds. Watts Blake Bearne Reserves, who face Ivybridge Town Development in the Fred Hewings semi-final, just about kept their title momentum going with a 4-3 home win over Newton Abbot ’66 Reserves. Teign Village picked up three points due to hosts Bishopsteignton United being unable to raise a side.

herald cup semi-final windmill v stoke gabriel and torbay police

The Windmill Beat Stoke to Reach Herald Cup Final

BATTLING PERFORMANCE: Division Two SDT Police Reserves put up a good fight, but it’s the Premier side who go through. © Paul Mirfin

The Windmill FC are aiming to become the first Plymouth team ever to lift the prestigious Torbay Clearance Services Herald Cup, after Lee France’s men saw off a brave challenge from Division Two side Stoke Gabriel and Torbay Police Reserves in last Wednesday’s semi-final at The Rec.

Both teams started well, but it was The Windmill who took the lead through centre-half Mike Cornew. Ash Walker played a great ball through to Andrew Crowmac, who squared it to Cornew who fired home to make it 1-0 just before half-time.

After their half-time team talk, the Windmill emerged determined to extend their lead.

“They probably played the best football they’ve played all season,” said France. “We played them off the park, and showed them we were the Premier side.”

First, Andrew Crowmac slotted through captain Mike Neal who scored from about ten yards, across the ‘keeper and into the corner. Pressing Stoke straight from the restart, the Windmill got the ball back quickly and put together a string of fast passes. Crowmac switched the ball from right to left for Carlton Allen to chest down the ball for Ash Walker to score a half volley.

“It was a really good goal actually,” said France. ” I wish everyone had been there to see it, because it was probably one of the best footballing goals of the season.”

SGT Police then got on top as the game reached its final stages. “We tried defending for the last 15 minutes where they came into the game and finally got their goal, which was deserved,” said France. “It was a good finish. He was one-on-one, smashed it across the ‘keeper, and it hit both posts and went in.”


The Windmill will play either Kingsteignton Athletic or Ilsington Villa in the final, with those sides facing off this Wednesday night, again at the Rec (7pm KO).

Should the Rams make it through, there will be added interest for one member of France’s family.

“My uncle, Dave Gaylard, played for Kingsteignton when they won it,” he explained. “He will be at the cup final, especially if it’s his old team, because he will see some familiar faces. He was telling me the other night that he’s got a winners’ medal, so he will show it to me if we don’t win one.

“My grandad, Mike Gaylard, used to run Woodlands, a really good Plymouth side back in the day. He won the treble – the Devon Cup, the Plymouth league and our league cup – in 1972. When I repeated the treble in 2018, my grandad wasn’t very happy about that. I’m just trying to break records in the family at the moment.”

Although the Herald Cup, which is approaching its centenary year, isn’t quite as well-known in Plymouth as it is in South Devon, France can relate to its importance.

“The P&D have the Premier Cup, which is exactly the same thing. It’s open to all the divisions,” he said. “Windmill has got to two finals but has never won the Premier, so it is a big deal for us to be in the Herald Cup final. We want our name on that trophy to put down a statement that we’re here to win trophies. We’re not here to mess around. We were gutted when we lost to Newton ‘66 in the Premier Division cup.

“We were unlucky not to win the Throgmorton Champions Cup at the start of the season, where we represented South Devon. We wanted to win it for both ourselves and South Devon, but we lost to Lapford, a Plymouth side, in the final.

“I had COVID, so I was sat at home screaming at the TV. Obviously we weren’t good enough, because we had so many boys out injured and through COVID. We lost 1-0, unfortunately, to a set piece.

Despite being ten points off the top, with four games remaining, France hasn’t yet given up hope of a top two finish in the league either, a result that could see them promoted to the Devon Football League.

“We’ve just signed a contract with Argyle to use their facilities, so we can meet the standard of that level,” revealed France. “Mount Gould v Windmill is probably the biggest rivalry in local Plymouth football, and the boys want the challenge of going there next season and maybe popping the league off them. But we’ve got to go up there with a good side first, and we’ve got to get in.

“I think the rule was that we had to finish in the top two of the SDFL, so we’ve got some work to do really. But we know that if Buckfastleigh drop points, and we beat them next week, then we’re right in it. Obviously, it’s in Buckfastleigh’s hands, but they have tough fixtures. We’re not pulling out of the league yet, not quite. Not while we can mathematically still win it. We know we’re in five cup finals, starting with Salcombe.”

France’s men duly won their home game with Salcombe 5-0, Crowmac with a brace and

Joe Ackerlay, Rhys Walton and Andy Parker all on target. But the other Torbay Clearance Services SDFL Premier Division game saw Buckfastleigh edge closer to the title by beating Watts Blake Bearne 5-2 at the Duckspond. Joshua Zimmerman doubled up for Rangers, with Luke Brown, Tom Moody and Charlie Morgan completing the scoring; Kieran Heale and Sam Stowell hit back for WBB.

Elsewhere, East Allington United and Newton Abbot ’66 made it through to the George Belli Cup final. Ben Bowhay struck twice for the Pirates as they beat Elburton Villa Reserves 4-2 at Poole Lane. Fin Bullen and Rob Tapper also found the net for the hosts, with Billy Tedder-Hart and Scott Allen on target for Elburton. Keran Fletcher and Jordan Pidwell scored for Newton ’66 as they narrowly ousted Ivybridge Town Reserves 2-1 at Erme Valley.

The first of the divisional cup finals will take place this Thursday evening, at Stoke Gabriel & Torbay Police (7pm). The Ronald Cup, sponsored by Bettesworths Estate & Business Agents, is a repeat of last season’s tournament final between Brixham Town and Totnes and Dartington. Brixham made the final after Bishopsteignton United failed to raise a side for Saturday’s semi-final fixture.

In Division One, Paignton Saints Reserves look set for an imminent take over at the top following a home walkover against Buckfastleigh Rangers. Saints are now just a point behind Waldon Athletic who lost out 4-1 at home to Kingsteignton Athletic, who are also well-placed for a late title challenge. Ashley Dove scored twice for the Rams, Mark Voisey put away his 15th goal of the season, and Sam Barnes also notched. Lewis Eaton found a consolation for the Clarets.

Chudleigh Athletic are in third place after their sixth league win in a row, Matthew Briant’s goal enough to clinch the points at home to Upton Athletic. Goals from Harry Atkinson and Richard Malone saw Paignton Villa celebrate a decent home win over Beesands Rovers, Adam Winkworth scoring for the Bees.

Babbacombe Corinthians secured a top three finish in Division Two as they beat Ipplepen Athletic Reserves 3-2 away. Corries move level on points with Ilsington Villa, but Villa have five games in hand. A seven goal derby thriller went the way of Newton Abbot Spurs Thirds who beat Newton Rovers 4-3 at The Rec.

Jack Wilkinson and Ash Beetschen scored two apiece for bottom team Paignton Villa Reserves who stormed to a 6-0 victory at Barton Athletic Reserves. Jack Harman and Charlie Thomas also scored.

In Division Three, Jonathan Clyne bagged a brace in Newton Abbot ’66 Reserves’ 5-4 home win over Paignton Saints Thirds. Scott Troth also scored twice as Totnes and Dartington moved three points clear of opponents Teign Village with a 4-1 home win. Bradley Spriggs and Connor Rowbotham also scored for Tots, with Mike Turner scoring his 15th of the season for the Quarrymen.

Goals from Matthew Churchill and Christian Fleet secured Bovey Tracey Reserves a place in the Les Bishop Cup final, sponsored by Torre Trophies, on 7th May. The Moorlanders beat Ivybridge Town Development 2-1 away, with Harley Battle netting for the Ivies.

The Division Four title is still Waldon Athletic Reserves’ to lose, after the Clarets rattled in eight without reply at Newton Rovers Reserves. Sean Finch scored twice, with Waldon’s other goals coming from Bailey Clarke, Shane Essam, Lee Henriques, Stephen Rohan, Adam Townsend and Shane Roberts.

Oliver Teague and Gavin Lake traded doubles as Kingsteignton Athletic Reserves drew 2-2 with Watcombe Wanderers Thirds.

lidstone cup barton athletic reserves v east allington united reserves

Cups Reach Crunch Stages

NO QUARTER: The Reserves of Barton Athletic and East Allington battle it out for a Lidstone Cup semi-final spot. © Al Macphee/MiraclePR

Stoke Gabriel and Torbay Police Reserves and The Windmill FC will contest the first of this season’s Torbay Clearance Services Herald Cup semi-finals at The Rec, Newton Abbot on Wednesday evening (7pm kick-off). Division Two outfit SGT Reserves will have their work cut out against the in-form Premier Division side.

The Windmill are competing in their first Herald Cup. Stoke last lifted the trophy back in 1989, five years after first winning the competition.

Last weekend saw six teams make the finals of their divisional cups. Chudleigh Athletic and Kingsteignton Athletic, already due to face off in the Devon Senior Cup final, will also be locking horns in the final of the Dartmouth (Division One) Cup. Alfie Luscombe scored twice for Chudleigh as they knocked out Paignton Saints Reserves

4-1 at Kate Brook. Kingsteignton had to work hard for their final place. After going down 2-0 at home to Paignton Villa, Alfie Lloyds and Stuart McAuley scoring, the Rams mounted a comeback. A brace from Ollie Kewell and goals from Louis Dickinson, Mark Voisey and Sam Barnes eventually saw them through 5-2.

Ilsington Villa also had to come from behind to book their place in the Lidstone (Division Two) Cup final. Trailing at home to a Torquay Town goal at half-time, Villa found a second half equaliser to bring the game to extra-time. Two further goals saw them through with their goals coming from Jack Dixon, Dan Langford and Matthew Warman.

Villa will be joined in the final by East Allington United Reserves who overcame Barton Athletic Reserves 3-1 at Paignton Community College. The Pirates took the lead early in the first half when a saved shot fell kindly for Finn Bullingham who finished into the top of the net from just under the crossbar. East Allington extended their lead two minutes into the second half, Dan Bastin gobbling up a spilled cross, and two soon became three when Sam Quick curled a great shot into the top right from 25 yards. Charlie Uniacke raced clear moments later with Barton’s best chance of the game, but his shot was saved. As tempers frayed towards the end, Uniacke was sent off. The ten men did get a goal back though, capitalising from a defensive mix-up to grab a last minute consolation.

Totnes and Dartington are into the final of the Ronald (Division Three) Cup after a nail-biting win over Liverton United Reserves. Liverton took the lead twice, Callum Hale with the first half opener, and Joshua Passmore-Tarpey with their second after Benjamin Towl had equalised. Scott Troth forced the game into extra-time with a strike in the last ten minutes, and with no further goals in extra-time, the game went to penalties. Tots took control of the shoot-out, winning 4-1.

They will be relishing a potential repeat of last season’s end of season tournament final with Brixham Town making it through to the semi-finals on Saturday. Their game, against Teign Village, also finished 2-2 and went to extra-time. But three extra-time Town goals set up a last four meeting with Bishopsteignton United. On the score-sheet for Brixham were Brendan Boddy, George Meredith, Josh Piper, Stuart Pointon and Dalton Sanders.

Brixham Town Reserves made it into the final of the Les Bishop (Division Four) Cup by winning 2-1 at South Brent, Paul Christie and Daniel Trezise on target. Their opponents will be either Bovey Tracey Reserves or Ivybridge Town Development, who put seven past Discoveries Devon without reply in Saturday’s quarter-final. Matthew Goodwin and Harley Battle scored two apiece, with Zach Edwards, Kai Foster and Craig Brenton also celebrating goals.

Elburton Villa Reserves will play either Ivybridge Town Reserves or Newton Abbot ’66 in the George Belli (Premier) Cup final after they dispatched Meadowbrook Athletic 2-0 at Haye Road.

The Torbay Clearance Services is not quite a two horse race yet, but Brixham AFC Reserves and Buckfastleigh Rangers are looking most likely to claim the prize after both picked up another three points last Saturday.

Salcombe Town were unable to raise a side against Brixham, while a Steve Sutton hat-trick saw Rangers beat Newton Abbot ’66 3-1 at the Duckspond, Jordan Pidwell with the Sixes’ effort.

The only game in Division One saw more joy for new Upton Athletic manager Andy Slough as his side beat fellow strugglers Kingskerswell and Chelston 1-0 at Armada Park, Kirean Nixon with the winner.

In Division Two, Babbacombe Corinthians dropped their first points in five games, as they were held 1-1 at Long Lane by Watcombe Wanderers Reserves, Harry Gouldthorpe and Curtis Marshall trading goals. Corries are one win away from securing third spot though, as Newton Rovers lost out 3-2 at home to Ipplepen Athletic Reserves.

Newton Abbot Spurs Thirds moved above Dartmouth AFC Reserves with a 4-1 victory over Darts at the Rec.

A hat-trick by Cam Gill, two goals from Antony Williams and a Gareth Hart strike helped Watts Blake Bearne Reserves to a comfortable 6-1 win over Kingsbridge and Kellaton United. WBB, who have three games in hand, are looking to chip away at unbeaten Division Three leaders Brixham Town who are ten points ahead.

Joe Potter and Anthony Buscombe celebrated goals as Chudleigh Athletic Third enjoyed a good 2-0 triumph at third-placed Newton Abbot ’66 Reserves. Broadhempston United have one more chance to secure a first league win after losing out 5-1 at home to Paignton Saints Thirds in their penultimate match.

Division Four side Barton Athletic Thirds became the first team to hang up their boots. Their final game was at Windmill Hill where Waldon Athletic Reserves reclaimed top spot with a 2-0 win, Sean Finch and Terry Hunter netting. The Clarets are two points ahead of Bovey Tracey Reserves with four games each remaining.

upton athletic v buckfastleigh rangers reserves south devon football league

Ilsington Villa Stun Premier Leaders With Herald Quarter-Final Win

UPTON ON THE UP? With a new manager and influx of players, Upton Athletic look for a strong finish to the season. However, Buckfastleigh won the points in this game. © Al Macphee/Miracle PR

Torbay Clearance Services SDFL Division Two side Ilsington Villa have made their first Herald Cup semi-final in over 40 years, knocking out league leaders Brixham AFC Reserves in a seven goal thriller at Lewthorne Cross.

Two goals from Matthew Warman, and a single from Jack Beer gave the home side a comfortable lead, but the Fishermen fought back to 3-2 with two penalty kicks. A stunning free-kick from Jack Langford restored Villa their cushion, and that ended up being the winner as Brixham pulled another late goal back.

Ilsington will face 2019 runners-up Kingsteignton Athletic in the semi-final. The Rams, who play in Division One, made the most of their first half chances to dispatch Premier Division hosts Watts Blake Bearne. Sam Barnes gave Kingsteignton the lead with a free-kick, and when another Barnes’ free-kick was saved, Mark Voisey gobbled up the rebound to double their advantage. Kingsteignton then missed one penalty before putting away another, Barnes the goalscorer again. WBB were much improved after the break, but by that time the damage had been done, and Athletic ran out 3-0 winners.

The Windmill, playing their first ever Herald Cup quarter-final, ended Torquay Town’s impressive run with a 3-1 victory at Bull Point. Carlton Allen, Ben Woodman and substitute Steven Edwards scored for the Premier Division side, with Kye Graham finding the net for Town, who play in Division Two.

Their semi-final opponents will also be from Division Two with SGT Police Reserves beating Division One title favourites Paignton Saints Reserves 1-0 at the Hive.

There were also a handful of divisional cup quarter-finals settled last Saturday. Ivybridge Town Reserves scored two without reply against title-chasing Buckfastleigh Rangers in the George Belli (Premier Division) Cup.

Barton Athletic Reserves’ Neil Thomas scored a hat-trick in an eventful Lidstone (Division Two) Cup game at Chuley Road which saw Barton overcome Newton Abbot Spurs Third 6-5 after extra-time.

Another high-scoring match saw Totnes and Dartington progress to the semi-finals of the Ronald (Division Three) cup, following a 5-3 win at Chudleigh Athletic Thirds. That game saw eight different goalscorers with Billy Bartlett, Jordan Baxter, Ciaran Finn-Looby, Sam Ingham and Bradley Spriggs on target for Tots, and Henry Stubbs, Oliver Williams and Jack Wills netting for Chudleigh.

Bovey Tracey Reserves are still eyeing a league and cup double as they ran out 8-1 victors at Newton Rovers Reserves in the Les Bishop (Division Four) Cup. Alistair Chuchuk put away a hat-trick.

Elburton Villa Reserves picked up a vital three points away to Newton Abbot ’66 in the Premier Division. Lewis Guest scored both of Villa’s goals in a 2-1 triumph, the referee over-ruling a linesman’s flag to award the winner. Villa are now just a point behind leaders Brixham Reserves with five games remaining for both teams. Buckfastleigh are a further point behind, but have a game in hand.

East Allington United still have an outside chance of the title. Finn Bullen scored five as the Pirates demolished Barton Athletic 13-1. Barton have one more game, against Ivybridge Reserves, to get that elusive first point.

waldon athletic v beesands rovers south devon football league
HOLDING FIRM: Division One leaders Waldon Athletic beat Beesands Rovers at Windmill Hill as they look to build a gap between themselves and unbeaten Paignton Saints Reserves. © Al MAcphee/MiraclePR

Waldon Athletic will need unbeaten Paignton Saints Reserves to slip up if they are to retain top spot in Division One. The Clarets strengthened their position last Saturday with a 2-1 home win over Beesands Rovers. Harrison Arnold and Lewis Eaton put them two up before Jack Eades pulled one back for the Bees.

Upton Athletic and Buckfastleigh Rangers Reserves fought out a goalless first half at Armada Park, with Rangers having the best chances but Upton defending well. Charlie Rowe and Samuel Lamburn missed one-on-ones to put Athletic in front and were to rue those missed opportunities, George Davidson and Brett Easterbrook delivering second half goals for Rangers.

Paignton Villa ran riot at South Devon College, beating Harbertonford 13-2. Jamie Ford and Richard Malone both scored hat-tricks for Villa. Jack Morrison added another two goals to his tally as Chudleigh Athletic won 5-1 at home to Kingskerswell and Chelston.

babbacombe corinthians v watcombe wanderers reserves south devon football league
EMPHATIC: Babbacombe put eight past Watcombe Reserves at Windmill Hill to go third in Division Two. ©Al Macphee/MiraclePR

Babbacombe Corinthians look set to claim third place in Division Two after an 8-1 thumping of Watcombe Wanderers Reserves at Windmill Hill. Curtis Marshall bagged a hat-trick with Ben Nickells scoring twice.

Dartmouth AFC Reserves and East Allington United Reserves climbed away from danger with big away win. Darts beat Paignton Villa Reserves 6-3 at Whiterock courtesy of braces from Facal Benaziza, Robbie Chalk and Alistair Selby. There were also doubles from Chris Jebb and Lee Prestage as East Allington won 6-1 at Ipplepen Athletic Reserves.

The Division Three title race is now officially a two-horse race following leaders Brixham Town’s 2-1 home win over third-placed Teign Village, Seve Sanders and Shane Pike scoring. Only Watts Blake Bearne Reserves can pip Town to the post, but they have the games to do it, including an upcoming head-to-head at Abbrook Park. Ben Drinkwater, Danny Harry and Luke Pellowe struck for WBB in a 3-0 win at Broadhempston United.

Newton Abbot ’66 Reserves celebrated their first win since January, beating Bishopsteignton United 5-1 away.

Division Four looks like going to the wire. Stephen Rohan scored twice as Waldon Athletic Reserves beat Watcombe Wanderers 4-1 away to reclaim top spot from Bovey Reserves. Ivybridge Town Development enjoyed a narrow 4-3 victory at Kingsteignton Athletic Reserves, Matthew Goodwin with two goals, and South Brent scored two without reply at Barton Athletic Thirds as they seek a top three finish.

Goals Galore in the Belli Cup Quarters

SEMI-FINAL BOUND: South Brent make the final four of the Les Bishop Cup. © Derek Castree

The weather did its best to disrupt the SDFL programme, but a handful of games did go ahead, and provided plenty of goals and incident.

The George Belli (Premier Division) Cup quarter-finals were a case in point, with Newton Abbot ’66 and East Allington both booking their places in the semi-finals after close-fought five goal thrillers.

The Sixes and the Windmill went into their clash at Osborne Park as the two form sides in the division. By the end of 90 minutes, the sides were still locked together with two goals apiece, Jordan Pidwell and Keran Fletcher scoring for the hosts, and Andrew Parker and Rhys Walton on target for the visitors. Gordon Stevenson clinched the extra-time winner, but the goals were only half the story, because The Windmill ended the game with nine men, Andrew Crowmac and Ashley Walker both seeing red.

A red card also affected proceedings at Malborough Playing Fields as Salcombe Town bowed out 3-2 to East Allington United with Kieran Stallard’s dismissal a big blow for the Crabs. Jack Ward and Ashley Yeoman scored for the home side, but Finley Bullen put away a hat-trick for the Pirates to see them through.

There were no games at all in the Torbay Clearance Services SDFL Premier Division, but Waldon Athletic came from behind at home to Harbertonford to go top of Division One. Jordan Baggott’s brace helped Fords into a 2-1 half-time lead at Windmill Hill, Ajay Tehrani with the Clarets’ strike. But a Lewis Eaton double and a goal from Ashley Harris saw Waldon turn the tables in the second half. They will have their work cut out to beat Paignton Saints to the title though, because Saints are just two points behind with three games in hand. Saints also progressed straight through to the semi-finals of the Dartmouth (Division One) Cup, thanks to a four goal blast from Jake Powell. All four were needed to dispatch Beesands Rovers, who managed three goals at Coach Road. Although this was a First Round game, Saints’ quarter-final opponents Ashburton have withdrawn from the league, giving them a bye.

The potential for a Paignton derby in the final is still alive as Paignton Villa made short work of their quarter-final tie against Buckfastleigh Rangers Reserves, scoring six without reply. Tom Parvin celebrated a hat-trick for the home side. Also through to the final four are Chudleigh Athletic, Jack Morrison with a double as the Senior Cup finalists won 6-3 at Upton Athletic.

Newton Rovers missed out on the chance of going third in Division Two, as they lost out 2-1 at Watcombe Wanderers Reserves, Toby Woodmore and Zack Chalmers-Wood with the goals. Nigel Vass was on target for Rovers.

Torquay Town continue to fight on three fronts as they knocked Stoke Gabriel and Torbay Police Reserves out of the Lidstone (Division Two) Cup with a 4-1 victory at the Hive. They will be joined in the semi-finals by East Allington United Reserves who narrowly beat Babbacombe Corinthians at Poole Lane. Eight goals were shared between the sides in the first 90 minutes, with another goal apiece scored in extra-time. The game was finally decided on penalties with the Pirates progressing.

Liverton United Reserves cruised into the semi-finals of the Ronald (Division Three) Cup with a hefty 10-1 triumph at bottom club Broadhempston United. Things were much closer at Michael’s Field where Kingsbridge and Kellaton United defeated Bishopsteignton United 3-2.

Discoveries Devon played their penultimate game in their first season in the SDFL, and the Division Four side still seek their first win after a resounding 8-2 loss against Kingsteignton Athletic Reserves, Ashley Dove and Ollie Kewell with hat-tricks apiece. South Brent scored twice and kept a clean sheet at Barton Athletic Thirds to progress to the semi-finals of the Les Bishop (Division Four) Cup. They will be joined by Brixham Town Reserves who go through due to Babbacombe Corinthians Reserves being unable to raise a side.

kingsteignton athletic fc

Bumper Saturday Sees Three SDFL Teams Make The County Cup Finals

KINGSTEIGNTON EYE COUNTY CROWN: Rams make the Senior Cup final and will face fellow SDFL-side Chudleigh at Coach Road. © Derek Castree

There will be an all-SDFL county cup final for the first time in eight years, as both Kingsteignton Athletic and Chudleigh Athletic won their Robert Williams Estate Agents Senior Cup semi-finals on Saturday afternoon.

Mark Voisey was on target again for Kingsteignton, who are now pushing for four trophies. Kelsey Leech also found the net in a 2-0 win away at Topsham Town Reserves.

Chudleigh were at home to near-neighbours Teignmouth Reserves and also won 2-0, Jordan Armstrong and Aidan Brown with the goals.

The last time two South Devon League sides met in a county cup final was in 2014, when Watcombe Wanderers beat Brixham AFC in the Devon Premier Cup. That same year, Dartmouth AFC won the Senior Cup, the last SDFL side to do so.

An SDFL team has also reached the A&S Paving Devon Intermediate Cup final for the second season in a row. Ivybridge Town Development continued their successful debut season by knocking Waldon Athletic Reserves out of the competition on penalties. Adam Townsend had given the Clarets the half-time advantage at Windmill Hill, but the Ivies equalised through Matthew Goodwin after the break. Ryan Mitchell put away the decisive penalty in a close fought shoot-out, and Ivybridge will play Exeter side St. Thomas Social Club in the final at Coach Road, on 14th May.

Chudleigh will play Kingsteignton a week later, at the same venue.

Buckfastleigh Rangers came from behind at East Allington United to celebrate an important victory in the Torbay Clearance Services SDFL Premier Division. Trailing 1-0 at the break to a deflected Fred Massey goal, Rangers fell further behind when Massey finished off a good Pirates move to score his second. But a brace from Luke Brown and an Ian Howse strike turned the game on its head. Rangers are now just two points behind leaders Brixham AFC Reserves, with a game in hand.

Brixham were in Herald Cup action, and the Fishermen breezed into the last eight, scoring seven without reply against Division Two opponents Newton Rovers. Chris Mitchell put away a hat-trick, James Deselincourt scored twice and there were singles from Alex Harding and Mark Griffiths.

Brixham will travel to Division Two side Ilsington Villa in the quarter-finals on 19th March. On the same afternoon, The Windmill will host Division Two leaders Torquay Town while Division One high-fliers Kingsteignton Athletic will travel to local rivals Watts Blake Bearne. There will definitely be at least one non-Premier side in the semi-finals as SGT Police Reserves from Division Two take on Division One leaders Paignton Saints Reserves in their quarter-final tie.

Back to the Premier Division, and Elburton Villa Reserves stumbled again last week, dropping two points away at Meadowbrook Athletic. Daniel Block, who has been in fine form, scored both of Brook’s goals in a 2-2 draw.

Watts Blake Bearne kept their title hopes alive with a resounding 5-1 triumph at Salcombe Town. Cam Gill scored a hat-trick, and he was joined on the score-sheet by Jakeb Heywood-Cann and Matt Battishill. Lee Morgan notched for the Crabs.

Joseph Clark-Farley, Keran Fletcher and Callum Foskett scored for Newton Abbot ’66 in a 3-1 win at Ivybridge Town Reserves, Sam Stevens netting for the Ivies.

The Windmill trounced Barton Athletic 17-0 at Paignton Community College. Carlton Allen and Rhys Walton scored four apiece; Ash Walker, Andrew Crowmac and Ben Woodman hit doubles and there were solo strikes from Joe Burton, Michael Neal and Andrew Parker.

Beesands Rovers moved up to third in Division One with a 2-0 win over Harbertonford, Louis Brace and Adam Winkworth on target for the Bees. Paignton Villa celebrated a third win on the bounce as they overcame Upton Athletic 3-2 at South Devon College. Alfie Lloyds, Tom Parvin and Samuel Woodcock scored for Villa, with Samuel Lamburn and Alex Stevenson responding for Upton. Buckfastleigh Rangers Reserves collected three points with Kingskerswell and Chelston failing to raise a side.

The top two in Division Two pulled off big wins. Torquay Town won 5-2 at home to SGT Police Reserves, while Ilsington Villa thrashed Watcombe Wanderers Reserves 11-2. George Harris scored a second successive hat-trick, while Dan Langford and Matt Warman also scored three apiece. Tom Bartlett scored a goal and a Watcombe player put through his own net to complete the picture.

Goals from Shane Pike, Stuart Pointon and Jack Thomson helped unbeaten Division Three leaders Brixham Town to another victory. Hosts Paignton Saints Thirds scored through Daniel Clement and Brandon Pym but lost out 3-2. Totnes and Dartington beat Kingsbridge and Kellaton United 4-1 to move level on points with third-placed Teign Village. Billy Bartlett opened the scoring for Tots, with Scott Troth, Sam Ingham and Aidan Knight also on target; William Kenny hit the visitors’ consolation. Liverton United Reserves sailed to a 6-1 win over Chudleigh Athletic Thirds.

In Division Four, Daniel Trezise scored four times for Brixham Town Reserves as they strengthened their bid for a top three finish with a 7-1 home win over Barton Athletic Thirds. He was joined on the score-sheet by Phattanawit Buntam, Zac Chancellor and Paul Christie. Jono Ellis also managed four goals as South Brent kept pace with a 7-2 win at Newton Rovers Reserves. Jamie Soper and Nathan Cole also netted for Brent with Mehmet Siren Guloglu getting both goals for Rovers. Babbacombe Corinthians Reserves, who are nearing the end of their season, enjoyed a 5-2 victory over Watcombe Wanderers Thirds.

Newton Abbot Spurs Thirds will play Barton Athletic Reserves in the last eight of the Lidstone Cup after beating Ipplepen Athletic Reserves 5-2 away in the First Round. Finally, Bovey Tracey Reserves eased into the quarter-finals of the Les Bishop Cup with a 13-0 hammering of Kingsteignton Athletic Reserves. Benjamin Moyle scored a hat-trick; there were braces for Patrick Hicks, Matthew Churchill and Nathan Trott and Alistair Chuchuk, Sam Harris, James Lockwood and Bradley Rooney also scored. The Moorlanders will play Newton Rovers Reserves away in Saturday’s quarter-final.

paignton saints thirds v broadhempston united south devon football league

Voisey Helps Rams Into Last Eight of Herald Cup

PLUCKY ROBINS: Broadhempston come close to snatching a point but Paignton Saints Thirds hold on for a deserved win. © Al Macphee/MiraclePR

Torbay Clearance Services Division One outfit Kingsteignton Athletic moved a step closer to a second successive Herald Cup final with a 5-2 home win over Premier Division Buckfastleigh Rangers.

The Rams lost out to Buckland Athletic Reserves in 2019, with the prestigious competition then shelved, due to COVID, for the following two years. But four goals from Mark Voisey secured their quarter-final place, and Lewis Plackett joined him on the score-sheet. Rangers’ consolation goals came from Steve Sutton and substitute Ben Harnett-Davies.

East Allington United, Herald Cup winners in both 2017 and 2018, were eliminated by The Windmill at Poole Lane. Ben Bowhay and Rhys Walton traded goals in the first half before Ashley Walker scored a second half winner for the Plymouth side.

Ilsington Villa cruised into the last eight with an 11-2 triumph at fellow Division Two side Ipplepen Athletic Reserves. George Harris led the charge with a hat-trick while Jack Langford and Matt Warman managed two apiece. There was just the one goal for Dan Langford this week, and Jamie Beer, Jack Dixon and sub Hayden Binmore also found the net.

Paignton Saints Reserves ended Bovey Tracey Reserves’ cup run with a 1-0 win at the Western Counties Roofing Ground. Jake Powell scored the decisive goal in the first half.

Matthew Waye is becoming something of a cup hero for Division Two side Torquay Town. He scored the only goal of the game at Barton Cricket Club to dispatch Premier Division Ivybridge Town Reserves.

Watts Blake Bearne, who last won the Herald Cup back in 2010, made the last eight without kicking a ball, because Harbertonford were unable to raise a side.

The remaining quarter-final place will go to either league leaders Brixham AFC Reserves or Division Two side Newton Rovers. They are due to lock horns at Wall Park this Saturday.

The Herald Cup is kindly sponsored by Torbay Clearance Services, and the final is due to be played on 20th May at The Rec, Newton Abbot

Brixham should be in good spirits for their cup tie. Following the previous week’s extra-time George Belli Cup defeat at the hands of Elburton Villa Reserves, the Fishermen returned to Haye Road last Saturday and collected a valuable three league points. Mitchell Thomas put away a hat-trick and top scorer Mark Griffiths also netted in a 4-1 win. Brixham now lead the division by five points, but both Buckfastleigh and Elburton have two games in hand.

The Premier division’s leading goalscorer, Salcombe Town’s Ash Yeoman, added another to his tally at Osborne Park. But Jordan Pidwell’s strike earned Newton Abbot ’66 a share of the spoils, denting The Crabs’ title chances.

Daniel Block scored five goals for Meadowbrook Athletic in their 7-1 home win over bottom team Barton Athletic. Liam Collings managed a brace with Michael Ventre on target for Barton..

barton athletic reserves v newton abbot spurs thirds south devon football league
BARTON BATTLE BACK: Barton Athletic Reserves come from two down to beat Newton Abbot Spurs Thirds 4-3 at The Rec. © Al Macphee/MiraclePR

Waldon Athletic celebrated an important 2-1 win at Beesands Rovers in Division One, climbing to second place. Paignton Villa enjoyed a second win and clean sheet in a row as they put five past Kingskerswell and Chelston. Harry Atkinson and Alfie Lloyds scored two apiece with Samuel Woodcock also netting.

Two Charlie Rowe goals were not enough for bottom team Upton Athletic as they lost out 3-2 at home to Chudleigh Athletic. Aidan Brown, Jack Morrison and Matthew Williams scored Chudleigh’s goals.

Babbacombe Corinthians moved back up to third in Division Two, Curtis Marshall scoring four times in a 10-0 drubbing of Dartmouth AFC Reserves. William Kerslake scored twice for Corries with Ryan Mellish, Lee McArthur, Callum Leeds and Sam Swann also contributing.

Newton Abbot Spurs Thirds took a first minute lead and went two up against visiting Barton Athletic Reserves. But a superb strike just before the break got Barton back into the game, and the Torquay side ran out 4-3 winners. SGT Police Reserves enjoyed a 4-1 home win over Watcombe Wanderers Reserves.

Ashley Beetschen was on fire for Paignton Villa Reserves as the Division Two side beat Division Four team Babbacombe Corinthians Reserves 6-2 to make the semi-finals of the Fred Hewings Cup. Craig Brenton scored a hat-trick for Division Four outfit Ivybridge Town Development as they overcame Newton Abbot ’66 Reserves, from Division Three, 7-0. The Ivies are now in two cup semi-finals in their first season!

Division Three sides Watts Blake Bearne Reserves and Chudleigh Athletic Thirds have also made the final four following extra-time wins. WBB were being held 0-0 by Division Four opponents Brixham Town Reserves before goals from Ben Drinkwater and Matt Elmore saw them through. Chudleigh hosted Division One side Buckfastleigh Rangers Reserves and battled out a 3-3 draw in normal time before clinching the game 4-3. Christian Williams scored twice for Chudleigh, with Jack Lee and Alfie Luscombe joining him on the score-sheet. It was an eventful afternoon for Rangers’ Jay Barnard who scored twice and was sent off. Glen Palmer scored Rangers’ other goal.

Totnes and Dartington Reserves increased their chances of a top three finish in Division Three with a superb 4-0 win at Teign Village, their goals supplied by Jordan Baxter, Bradley Spriggs, Nick Warren and Billy Bartlett. Paignton Saints Thirds survived a late scare to claim three points in their home game against winless Broadhempston United. First half goals from Aaron West and Tom Dusgate saw the sides level going into the second half. Matt Micklewright then slotted past the visiting ‘keeper early in the second half and Saints had several chances to extend their lead, including a strong penalty shout, for a foul on Micklewright, which was waved away. But a late spell of pressure from the Robins meant that the Saints will have been happy to have heard the final whistle.

The battle for the Division Four title could go down to the wire. New signing Sean Finch scored twice in the first half for Waldon Athletic Reserves as they beat South Brent 2-1 at Windmill Hill, Jono Ellis pulling one back after the break. The Clarets are now just a point behind Bovey Tracey Reserves with a game in hand.

Mehmet Siren Guloglu’s hat-trick helped Newton Rovers Reserves to a 4-1 home win over bottom club Discoveries Devon. Guney Uven also scored for Rovers with Joshua Browring responding for the visitors.

elburton villa reserves south devon football league

Villa Knock Out League Leaders in Belli Cup

Elburton Villa Reserves are a step closer to cup glory. © Derek Castree

Elburton Villa Reserves are into the last 16 of the George Belli Cup following a dramatic extra-time winner against Torbay Clearance Services SDFL Premier Division leaders Brixham AFC Reserves.

Elburton kicked off just as the skies cleared and the wind dropped, and the large crowd enjoyed an entertaining cup tie.

In a game reminiscent of their league win at Wall Park, the Plymouth side took a two goal lead through Sam Lang and Bayley Williams. Lang scored in the first minute, which got everybody’s attention, and the game was on. The first half action was end to end, with both teams threatening, but there were no further goals and the main talking point was a slide tackle and retaliation which led to a booking for either side.

Williams’ goal came right after the restart, Brixham losing possession from the kick-off. The away team then piled on the pressure, but wasted chance after chance until the 80th minute, when an in-swinging corner eluded the Villa ‘keeper. He dropped the ball right at the feet of a Brixham player who tapped it home. As the game entered the 90th minute, a Brixham winger broke away from the half-way line and put in a great cross for his team-mate to equalise and secure an extra 30 minutes.

Villa were then dealt another blow when the player booked in the first half was sent off for a second yellow card. But this spurred the home team on. As they launched a counter attack, substitute Scott Allen calmly put the ball past the out-coming ‘keeper to put his side 3-2 in front. Brixham pushed and pushed but couldn’t find a second equaliser, and it will be the home team in the hat for the next round. Incidentally, they meet again at Haye Road this week, in the league!

That game was one of only four that went ahead in the aftermath of Storm Eunice. Stoke Gabriel and Torbay Police Reserves became the first team to make the Herald Cup quarter-finals as they put seven past Broadhempston United without reply. Zac Norton scored twice for the Bees with Peter Andrews, Jack Cousins, Sam Healey, Gary Munday and Benn Russell completing the rout.

Nathan De’Ath stepped off the bench to score twice for Newton Rovers as they enjoyed a 6-3 victory at Barton Athletic Reserves. The win lifts Rovers above Babbacombe Corinthians and into third place in Division Two, although there is a large gap between them and the breakaway top two. Rovers’ other goalscorers were Ben French, Adam Knight, Guney Uven and Nigel Vass.

It was a better outcome for Barton Athletic Thirds in Division Four, as they celebrated a 5-0 triumph over bottom club Discoveries Devon.

Plymouth Sides on a Roll in the SDFL Premier

ALL OVER FOR ROVERS: SGT Police Reserves score four without reply against Newton Rovers to progress in the Lidstone Cup. © Al Macphee/MiraclePR

The TCS South Devon Football League will have a team in the final of the A&S Paving Devon Intermediate Cup for the second season in succession. Waldon Athletic Reserves were drawn against fellow SDFL Division Four side Ivybridge Town Development in the semi-finals and will face off at Windmill Hill on 5th March with the winners playing either St Thomas Social Club or Starcross Dons in the final.

Last year, Brixham Town made the final of the same competition, but were narrowly beaten by Witheridge Reserves.

The league could also have representation in the Robert Williams Estate Agents Devon Senior Cup final with Kingsteignton Athletic drawn away to Topsham Town Reserves and Chudleigh Athletic hosting Teignmouth Reserves in the semi-finals of that competition, also to be played on March 5th.

Last Saturday was a great day for the Plymouth-based sides of the TCS SDFL Premier Division with Elburton Villa Reserves and The Windmill both pulling off important wins. Elburton came away from Salcombe Town with three points, Bayley Williams, Billy Tedder-Hart, Corbin Mackin and Sam Lang all making the score-sheet with Charlie Barnes and Lee Morgan responding for the Crabs.

The Windmill welcomed league leaders Brixham Town Reserves to Bull Point, and they made up for their defeat at Wall Park with a 2-0 victory. Windmill manager Lee France hailed the contest as the ‘game of the day.’ His side started strongly with Rhys Walton missing a big chance to put them ahead when he blazed his effort over from nine yards. Brixham then had a glorious chance to take the lead when Brennan Moore brought down Luke Manuell. Dan Rankin stepped up but his penalty was saved by The Windmill’s number one, Dan Cork. Four minutes later, the home side took the lead when Andrew Cromack beat his man on the left to deliver a ball to the back post where Sam Doyle was waiting to head home. Windmill upped the gears after the break and, 20 minutes from the end, Ashley Walker crossed for Rhys Walton to head their second.

Both Plymouth clubs have now won five league games in a row, with Villa now just two points behind Brixham with two games in hand over the Fishermen.

Between the two sit Buckfastleigh Rangers who are also two points off the top, with one game in hand. Rangers didn’t play in the league as they were in George Belli Cup action at Abbrook Park. In an eventful game, Lewis Cox, Ryan Lucassi and Josh Zimmerman each scored to help Rangers to a 3-2 triumph over hosts Watts Blake Bearne. WBB scored through Jamie Orchard and Billy Clinch but also saw Cianan Breen sent off.

Meadowbrook Athletic are comfortably through to the second round following a 10-2 win at Barton Athletic. Former Totnes and Dartington goalscorer Daniel Block bagged a hat-trick for Brook, with Liam Collings scoring twice and Adam Biggs, Thomas Comyn, Jack Johansen, Jacob Kneebone and Daniel Wood completing the rout. Ivybridge Town Reserves are also into the last 16 following Galmpton’s recent withdrawal.

East Allington United suffered a surprise home defeat in the league, going down 1-0 to Newton Abbot ’66, Callum Foskett with the decider. Pirates top scorer Finley Bullen was sent off in that game.

In Division One, substitute Alex Stevenson scored twice to help Upton Athletic to their first win of the season. Fellow sub Jordan Bastow, Marc McGregor and Andrew Walker also found the back of the net in a 5-1 result at Kingskerswell and Chelston. Having had nine points deducted, Upton still have a lot to do to avoid finishing bottom.

A Bradley Williams brace and another goal from Jack Eades saw title contenders Beesands Rovers edge a tight game at the Duckspond 3-2. Jay Barnard and Jerry Revell scored for Buckfastleigh Rangers Reserves.

Following their county cup successes Kingsteignton Athletic and Chudleigh Athletic both pulled off away wins in the Dartmouth Cup. Mark Voisey and Tom Reeves scored two apiece for the Rams in a 4-0 victory at Harbertonford. Jordan Armstrong and Jack Morrison saw Chudleigh over the line in a closer affair at Windmill Hill, Josh Clarke scoring for Waldon Athletic as they bowed out 2-1.

There were some big home wins in the Lidstone Cup, with Paignton Villa Reserves putting eight past Dartmouth AFC Reserves with no reply, Ashley Beetschen with a hat-trick. Babbacombe Corinthians comfortably despatched Watcombe Wanderers Reserves 6-1 at Windmill Hill, while SGT Police Reserves won 4-0 at home to Newton Rovers.

The highly anticipated clash between the top two in Division Two, Ilsington Villa and Torquay Town, was abandoned in the second half with Villa leading 4-1 at the time.

Brendan Boddy added another two goals to his tally as Division Three leaders Brixham Town made it into the last 16 of the Ronald Cup, beating Paignton Saints Thirds 5-0 away. An extra time winner from Sam Ingham saw Totnes and Dartington Reserves dispatch hosts Newton Abbot ’66 Reserves.

Mehment Siren Guloglu scored a hat-trick for Newton Rovers Reserves at Watcombe Wanderers Thirds as his side won 6-1.

Daniel Trezise celebrated a hat-trick for Brixham Town Reserves as they beat Discoveries Devon 7-1 to strengthen their bid for a top three finish in Division Four.

Finally, Watts Blake Bearne Reserves will take the last quarter-final spot in the Fred Hewings Cup following Torquay Town Reserves’ withdrawal from the league.

barton athletic third v watcombe wanderers third south devon football league

SDFL Sides Storm into County Cup Semi-Finals

CLASH OF THE THIRDS: Watcombe Thirds claimed the points with a 3-1 victory over Barton Athletic Thirds at Steps Cross. © Al Macphee/Miraclepr.com

The TCS South Devon Football League enjoyed a bumper weekend in the county cups with all four remaining teams making it through to their respective semi-finals.

In the Robert Williams Estate Agents Devon Senior Cup, goals from Chris Barnett and Kelsey Leech saw Kingsteignton Athletic through 2-1 against Newton St. Cyres. Chudleigh Athletic will join the Rams in the hat after they defeated Torrington Reserves 2-0 at Kate Brook, Joe Potter and Jordan Armstrong with the goals. Teignmouth Reserves and Topsham Town Reserves were the other quarter final winners.

The last SDFL team to lift the Senior Cup were Dartmouth in 2014, with Roselands the last team to make the final, losing out to Cronies FC in 2017.

Waldon Athletic Reserves put three past Falcons without reply to make the semi-final of the A&S Paving Devon Intermediate Cup. Wayne Bergin, Stephen Rohan and Adam Townsend found the net for the Clarets. It was a closer affair at Erme Park where Ivybridge Town Development edged out Bickleigh 3-2. Lewis Dickson scored twice for the Ivies with Matthew Goodwin also on target. St Thomas Social Club and Starcross Dons also made the final four.

The last South Devon Football League side to lift the Intermediate Cup were Roselands in 2015 although Brixham Town came close last season with a narrow loss to Witheridge Reserves in the final.

The top two both won in the TCSSDFL Premier Division. A second half winner from Mitch Thomas saw Brixham AFC edge a close game against Salcombe Town at Wall Park. The Fishermen have another tough game, away at the Windmill FC, on Saturday.

Steve Sutton scored twice for Buckfastleigh Rangers in a comfortable 4-1 victory over Ivybridge Town Reserves.

Things were going well for third-placed East Allington United away at Haye Road, as goals from Ben Bowhay and talisman Simon Hannaford put them two up against Elburton Villa Reserves. But Villa came storming back and were 3-2 up by the break. The Plymouth side carried on where they left off after the break, eventually running out 6-2 winners, a result which moves them above the Pirates into third place. Scott Allen scored twice for Villa with Jake Beer, Marley Cunningham, Corbin Mackin and Billy Tedder also finding the net. Elburton play Salcombe away in their next game.

Cameron Gill netted twice for Watts Blake Bearne as they won their first league game in three to climb back into the top six. Jamie Orchard also scored for The Claymen in a 3-0 triumph at Meadowbrook Athletic.

Newton Abbot ’66 ran riot at Osborne Park with Darren Fisher, Keran Fletcher and Joe Clark-Farley each bagging hat-tricks in a 12-0 mauling of Barton Athletic.

With Harbertonford unable to raise a side, Paignton Saints Reserves moved top of Division One with a home walkover win. The only other games in the Division saw Beesands Rovers beat Buckfastleigh Rangers 4-0, Jack Eades with a brace, and Paignton Villa enjoy a 3-0 victory away at Kingskerswell and Chelston.

Torquay Town and Ilsington Villa warmed up for Saturday’s big Division Two showdown at Lewthorne Cross with emphatic away wins. Connor Preston scored five times for Torquay Town and Simon Ross put away a hat-trick as Town demolished Watcombe Wanderers Reserves 11-0 at Long Lane.

Villa pulled off a 6-0 win away at Paignton Villa Reserves with Dan Langford scoring a hat-trick, keeping him top of the league goalscoring charts. There were goals all over the division with Barton Athletic Reserves and Newton Rovers scoring five in victories over Ipplepen Athletic Reserves and Newton Abbot Spurs Thirds respectively. East Allington United won 2-1 away at Dartmouth AFC Reserves, while Babbacombe Corinthians returned from SGT Police Reserves with the three points.

Unbeaten Brixham Town still lead the way in Division Three following a 2-0 win away at Liverton United Reserves. Brendan Boddy and Stuart Pointon scored the goals.

Two goals each from Ben Drinkwater and Matt Elmore helped second-placed Watts Blake Bearne Reserves to a 5-1 home win over Broadhempston United. They increase their lead over Newton Abbott ’66 Reserves to eight points after the Sixes lost out 2-1 at Totnes and Dartington Reserves. Teign Village closed the gap on the top three with an 8-1 home win over Bishopsteignton United, Mike Turner scoring three. Paignton Saints Thirds scored four without reply against visiting Kingsbridge and Kellaton United.

Christian Williams terrorised Torquay Town Reserves at Barton Cricket Club. The Chudleigh Athletic Thirds player scored seven of his side’s goals in a 10-2 thrashing.

It was a day of hat-tricks in Division Four. Bovey Tracey Reserves cemented their position at the top with a convincing 4-0 win at South Brent. Alistair Chuchuk bagging a hat-trick in that game. Brixham Town Reserves moved up to third, Daniel Trezise’s treble helping his side to a 5-0 triumph over Kingsteignton Athletic Reserves.

Gavin Lake earned Watcombe Wanderers Thirds the points at Barton Athletic Thirds with a ‘perfect’ hat-trick at Steps Cross. The game sprung to life in a frenetic end to the first half which saw three goals scored in three minutes. Lake slotted into the bottom left with his right foot to break the deadlock, on 43 minutes, after good build up play by Watcombe. A minute later, he got on the end of a cross to head the Greens two up. Despite desperate attempts to clear off the line, Barton then got a goal back on the stroke of half-time. Watcombe restored their cushion on 68 minutes, the rebound from Corey Price’s saved shot guided into the back of the net by Lake’s left boot.

Finally, Connor Charlesworth scored a hat-trick at Decoy Park as Babbacombe Corinthians Reserves defeated winless Discoveries Devon 4-1.