EXMOUTH 4 - CREDITON U14S 3

SATURDAY, November 30 saw Crediton Youth FC Under 14’s play away to Exmouth in the Cup.

The cup quarter final game kicked off much later than scheduled due to the game before going to extra time. The Crediton boys had finished their pre-match warm up but now had to stand around for an extra half-an-hour. Unfortunately it was a cold windy morning on the seafront.

The game finally started with both teams not really creating many chances. After Exmouth had threatened down the left side of the pitch a few times, an unlucky handball from a Crediton player lead to a penalty kick.

Exmouth’s penalty taker ran up and slotted it to the left leaving Reece rooted to the spot. Crediton had a few chances to make it level but couldn’t put the ball into the net.

Exmouth took advantage of Crediton’s missed chances and made it 2-0 with a cross into the box met by an Exmouth forward.

The last five minutes of the first half were quite quiet, however Crediton huffed and puffed and a tidy finish into the corner from Knoxy (James Knox) made it 2-1 to Exmouth at half-time.

Dave Hughes’ half-time team talk consisted of him encouraging us to communicate with each other more.

Crediton started the second half much more positively taking control of the game and the equalising goal soon followed (Knoxy).

Unfortunately a wind-assisted free kick from Exmouth restored their lead. Crediton however continued to press forward.

The game was coming to a close when finally Crediton found an equaliser from Kieran (Crump) striking a well-hit shot from the edge of the box. The final whistle blew, 3-3 - extra time to be played.

Crediton continued to create chances with two penalty appeals waved away by the referee much to Crediton’s dismay (Finn clattered by the ‘keeper and a handball off the line).

Unfortunately right at the end Exmouth broke away and scored a fourth, leaving no time for Crediton to respond.

Final score 4-3 AET to Exmouth.

Although Crediton lost it was a very enjoyable game to be involved in with both teams being very sporting. It was good to have Joe Webber back after a long lay-off through concussion (sustained while playing a game with the wrong shaped ball!); he had a very strong match in defence.

The next game for Crediton Under 14s is tomorrow, Saturday, December 7 at home.

FW