Chudleigh Athletic 2 Loddiswell Athletic 3
Saturday 20th March 2010 - SDL Division 1

Loddiswell travelled to Chudleigh without the injured Merchant and unavailable Maher and Robey, however welcomed Matt Price back from University. With the central areas of the pitch covered in water, it was clear that the wide areas would need to be utilised at every opportunity.

Lodds took the lead within the first 15 minutes, when a good run from Price saw him lay the ball off to the recalled Smallridge; whose low powerful 18 yard shot flew into the bottom corner. Despite the pitch cutting up badly, both teams tried to get the ball down; however long ball tactics were inevitably introduced at times which made the game stretched, thus giving both sets of defences difficulties in the poor conditions. Smallridges’ hold up play gave Lodds lots of success as he was able to bring Hammett, Price and Edmonds into play which resulted in numerous corners and free kicks.

Lodds started the second half in positive fashion and an excellent one-two between Smallridge and Edmonds resulted in the latter’s cross finding the run of Price who smashed the ball high into the net from 10 yards. Unfortunately, for the visitors, Chudleigh pulled a goal back within 5 minutes when a low cross was diverted past Drews at the near post by the unlucky Anniss. With renewed optimism, Chudleigh, who had strengthened their team, began to force the play, meaning Hallett, Hillard and Edmonds had to work hard to protect the back four of Harvey, Hurrell, Anniss and Luscombe who all defended resolutely. On the few occasions that the defence was breached, Drews made some important saves and blocks.

Rob Tapper replaced Price just after the hour and he quickly settled in providing a good outlet whilst keeping possession well. Lodds nearly extended their lead when Hurrell headed a Hillard free kick against the outside of the post. Into the last 10 minutes, and with Chudleigh throwing players forward, Lodds extended their lead when Luscombe intercepted a pass near his own penalty area, before running the length of the pitch to slot the ball past the keeper. Clearly elated, Lodds switched off momentarily and Chudleigh reduced the deficit again. Drews saved well down to his left but with the ball stuck in the mud, Chudleigh’s attacker was first to react forcing the ball over the line. This set up a frantic finale, which Lodds saw out to claim an excellent victory. The work ethic and team spirit shone through for an important win in what was always going to be a difficult fixture.

Loddiswell host Staverton and Landscove on Wednesday 31st March, kick-off 6:30pm.