SANDFORD AFC kicked off there first home pre-season game on the King George Playing Field pitch against recently formed Exmouth Riptide.

There was a 6.30pm kick-off, a match which was well attended with plenty of Sandford supporters.

They enjoyed a close game with plenty of excitement.

Sandford’s goals came from newest recruit, at just 16, Jayden Friend, with his second goal in the pre-season already.

Others goals came from Tom Cornwall and Reece Kelly.

After some great play, the game ended in a 3-3 draw.

Sandford players were Kye Fowler, Danny Stevens, Mathew Baker, Ryan Trump, James Durand, Lewis Mooney, Abe Deliver, Kai Alexander, Tudor MH, Sam Reeves, Will JR, Tom Cornwall, Harry Stoneman, Reece Kelly, Jayden Friend and Tyler MH.

Sponsors are Sandford Orchards, The Duke of York in Crediton and DTR Garden Services.

The club, after a season of much change last year, both on and off the field, can look forward to hopefully a brighter future now after the difficulties of the 24-25 season.

The next pre-season was away to Newton St Cyres on Tuesday, August 5, followed by another home game on Saturday, August 9 against South Zeal.

It would be great to see the support again for the lads.

• Sandford Firsts play in the Devon and Exeter League (Division 6) and kick off the season on August 30 against Awliscombe Firsts away at Greenway Lane Playing Field with a 3pm kick off.

The second game of the season will be a game v North Tawton Firsts at 3pm on September 6 at North Tawton Football Ground, swiftly followed by a game against Tedburn St Mary Seconds at 3pm at Barley Park main pitch on September 13.

Last season Sandford finished seventh in the league table.

Adam Voisey

Club Chairman