Torridgeside triumph in the North Devon derby

The opening weeks of the South-West Peninsula League season have not been easy for Torridgeside, losing their opening four fixtures and suffering from the dangerous combination of a leaky defence and wasteful finishing.

A midweek trip to local rivals Torrington was either the perfect opportunity to restore some confidence or a potential sickener in the North Devon bragging rights.

An impressive 307 supporters basked under the floodlights at Vicarage Road and those hoping for a home win were left frustrated by a goalless first period, as Torridgeside defended with outstanding discipline and determination.

The second period followed a similar platform and the T-Siders took advantage of their solid platform to pinch all three points with a goal from Dean Hutchings. Torrington irritation was compounded by a red card for Ollie Stevens.

Torridgeside looked to take the momentum into the weekend visit from league leaders Ivybridge Town but they proved too big a task to overcome, as the Ivies showed their class in a 5-0 victory.

The next challenge for Torridgeside is a midweek trip to Okehampton Argyle, another strong side in the division, although the Okes are currently in the bottom four after their recent cup exploits.