AFTER securing their first points of the season last Saturday Sandford AFC First Team made another away trip, this time to league leaders Alphington.

On a wet and miserable afternoon this was always going to be a struggle for the away side as they only had 12 fit players.

From the off the game flowed back and forward with chances at either end, the majority being for Alphington.  Then on the 25th minute the Sandford left back Keiran Stanbury badly twisted his ankle, leading to him having to leave the field and the sub having to come on and replace him.

Alphington took more control but could not make it count with Sandford having the odd chances.

Then, with two minutes to go to half-time, the home side broke away down the left wing and a low cross ended with the number nine putting the ball into the Sandford net.

After the break Sandford began to tire and on one of their rare breakaways Dean Pigeon hit a brilliant right foot volley into the top corner of the Alphington goal. 1-1.

Could it be with all the pressure Sandford were under, might we get a point out of this game.

As the half wore on more and more pressure came from the home forwards and only some gallant defending and poor finishing kept the scores level.

Then with two minutes of extra-time played Sandford’s hopes were dashed as Alphington scored a late winner. Two more efforts from the home side hit the crossbar before the ref blew the final whistle.

A brilliant effort from all 12 players who tried their very best but to no avail.  Hard luck lads.

Tomorrow, Saturday, October 29, the First Team are at home to Okehampton. Kick Off 3pm.

Well done to the Second Team with a fine 2-1 win over Central.

A J H