North Devon Ladies top the table with superb away win

On Saturday, November 2, North Devon Ladies travelled down to Cullompton early to take on Honiton Hornets Ladies in a hard-fought encounter that saw North Devon take the spoils and consolidate their position at the top of the league table.

The first half saw North Devon go behind as Honiton struck early with a fine effort to open the scoring.

It wasn’t long, however, until the away side managed to settle and find the back of the net thanks to some great, poised work from Shauna Vetch.

North Devon were back in the game but by no means had it easy, with Honiton’s defence standing strong and managing to hold off the visitors’ determined press.

Eventually, North Devon got their reward, registering another goal through Keeley Hathway to put them 2-1 up and seemingly in the driving seat. However, this was to be short lived, as Honiton caught the visitors napping on the break and evened the score in fine fashion.

Undeterred, the away side pressed ahead in the closing stages of the first half and nicked the lead once more through Keeley Hathway to go into the break 3-2 up.

As the second half got underway, the Hornets came out strong, pressing with intent. They were awarded a short corner and converted to level the scoreline once more.

North Devon responded with improved passing and greater pressure, which was rewarded when, following some superb play down the right flank, Selina Mather pounced in the D to slip another past the hosts’ keeper.

North maintained this momentum and continued attacking together with aplomb. Despite being unable to convert a few short corners that had come their way, the visitors were ultimately awarded for the fifth and final time when, after some great attacking play from Martika Gallagher, they finally put the match to bed.

Considering the ladies travelled with the minimum number of 11 players, they produced a very solid display against seasoned opposition.

Elsewhere, North Devon Ladies 2nds ultimately fell to a 0-5 defeat against the very strong, high-flying Isca Ladies 2s. While pressure ultimately told, the team showed improvement all over the park and took positives from a difficult encounter with the team ranked second in the table on goal difference.

North Devon Men’s 2nds produced a courageous display of their own, hosting table-topping Ashmoor Men’s 2nds. While showing great defensive mettle throughout, the team succumbed to a 0-3 defeat against a very strong team with a 100% win record so far this season. A gallant performance with lots to build on.