WHIPTON & PINHOE 1

CREDITON RESERVES 2

THE Reserves travelled to the scenic Hamlin Lane for a top of the table clash with Whipton and Pinhoe on Saturday, September 24.

Creddy fielded a strong 4-3-3 line up with Keast, Broom, Harvey and Cammy all starting. On a small pitch with a strong wind Creddy decided to go against the wind first up and their through balls were holding up nicely.

Intricate play led Danny Harvey into the box but his unorthodox toe punt just went wide. Moments later a half volley from Harvey landed on the top of the bar.

At the other end Aaron Haizelden found himself clean through but his shot was comfortably saved. The final chance of a tight first half went to the hosts but a corner was just tipped over the bar by Keast.

The second half saw a huge swing in the pattern of play with Whipton causing danger with their direct balls into the box and their huge long throws.

They took the lead on 51 minutes. A whipped free kick from 45 yards just eluded the extraordinary sammon dive from Broome and just nestled into the far corner.

Creddy responded brilliantly and equalised five minutes later. A corner from Harvey was tucked away from right-back, Matty Holland, from all of four yards.

Creddy went ahead on 63 minutes, a superb right-wing cross was smashed home by Badham at the back stick.

From here Creddy had to dig deep for the final 20 minutes due to the hosts aerial bombardment from free kicks and numerous long throws.

Despite a couple of scares Creddy were able to see out the final nervy moments. On the counter Nigel Thomas was unlucky not to seal the win with a curling left foot effort which cannoned back off the bar and Badham was thwarted when cleared through.

A battling performance from the hosts with the back five of Keast, Holland, Broomer, Gibbo and Acton all excelling.

Creddy travel to Alphington Thirds tomorrow, Saturday, October 1, looking to make it four wins on the spin.

Nathan Keast