Exeter Friendly League Under 9's
8 September 2007
Dawlish United 3 – Westhill Wasps 0
Dawlish United kicked off the new season with a well deserved win on a fine and hot sunny day. The early exchanges saw a battle in midfield with limited changes ensuing. The midfield trio of Matthew Ranger, Max Armitage and Jamie Middeton worked tirelessly despite the conditions and Matthew Ranger was unlucky not to score having came close with two good chances.
The first goal came after about 5 minutes, Jamie Middleton’s cute pass put last season’s leading goal scorer, Luke Morgan, clean through to clinically finish. Jamie was immediately rewarded for his good play following a quick throw in with which he managed to score a good goal. Max Armitage came close with a good effort midway through the first half.
Jack Arnold, in particular and Frankie Maloney were dominant in defence and also provided some good link up play. Frankie Maloney not only intercepted a good through ball on the half way line but also saw his opportunity to shoot an scored an excellent goal from just inside the oppositions half giving the keeper no change. Cody Rackley replaced Luke Morgan up front and saw his effort come close in the closing stages of the first half leaving the score 3-0 at half time.
The management team made some changes at half time to refresh tired legs which saw Nick Langley-Pope replace Frankie Maloney, Corie Cleave come on into midfield with Sam Wright replacing Jamie Middleton who swapped to a right hand side midfield position for Matthew Ranger. Luke Morgan resumed his striking duties. Indeed it was Luke Morgan who opened proceedings with a fine volley that produced an excellent save from the opposition ‘keeper.
Jamie Middleton saw a fine effort only just clear the cross bar and Corie Cleave’s shot again produced another excellent save.
The pressure was increased by Westhill Wasps and two great saves from Harvey Hannaford, one in particular down low to his right hand side kept the sheet clean for United. This coupled with some excellent defending from man of the match Jack Arnold who was in no mood to let the opposition past him.
Dawlish United 8 – Westhill Hornets 1
The second game saw Dawlish United maintain their excellent start to the new season with an excellent 8 goal blitz. Early on Luke Morgan made a good pass to Jamie Middleton who saw his shot go just wide. Indeed, Luke Morgan and Jamie Middleton linked up together well early on with another one, two which saw Luke Morgan finish well low into the bottom corner.
Once again Frankie Maloney was disciplined with his defensive duties and through his excellent reading of the game managed to latch onto another through ball to deliver yet another beautiful strike from just inside the opposition’s half which gave the keeper no chance.
Sam Wright demonstrated his poaching abilities by smartly following up on a long through ball from Maloney which he managed to bundle into the net and then in similar circumstances again found himself able to follow up on a ball that came back off the goalkeeper. Max Armitage back in midfield strung together some good passes and nice touches and was unlucky to see a good shot just wide. Jamie Middleton on the right hand side of midfield finished a good corner ball and Luke Morgan again scored another good goal from another of Max Armitage’s passes. A rare defensive lapse allowed the hornets to sting back with a good goal just before half time which saw the score at 6-1.
The second half again saw some change with the introduction of Matthew Ranger, Nick Langley-Pope and Corie Cleave. Nick Langley-Pope was in a defiant mood twice getting injured for the cause. Max Armitage and Matthew Ranger did well to link up on a couple of occasions one resulting in a good shot and save when Max Armitage latched onto a good Matthew Ranger cross. Matthew Ranger demonstrated a good work rate throughout the second half which saw him awarded the man of the match.
Corie Cleave scored a good individual goal when he linked up on a good cross from Sam Wright. Sam Wright scored the final goal and completed his hat trick with a good left foot shot late on.
The early signs from these games were pleasing and all of the lads produced some good passing football and demonstrated continued improvement from last season despite the summer break.
6 October 2007
Dawlish United 3-1 Sidmouth Town Viking Raiders
A determined display of defending by man of the match Nick Langley-Pope helped provide Dawlish with the foundation for a hard fought win. A tight first half provided few goal scoring opportunities for either side with both midfields struggling for supremacy, Max Armitage, Jamie Middleton and Matthew Ranger were being matched tackle for tackle by their Sidmouth counterparts. The defiant defending of Langley-Pope was perfectly complimented by his defensive partner Frank Maloney who was able to instigate some of his teams more promising attacks. It was from a neat move involving Maloney and Ranger that striker Sam Wright was able to create the first goal scoring opportunity for Dawlish but he was denied at the expense of a corner. The resulting corner was one of several from Middleton which caused panic in the Sidmouth defence. At the other end Harvey Hannaford in the Dawlish goal was never really tested although he looked confident with his handling and kicking. The deadlock was finally broken just before half time when Ranger broke free from two defenders on the right before firing in a near post shot which was too hot for the Sidmouth keeper to hold.
The introduction of Luke Morgan at half time gave Dawlish a better shape with his pace and excellent running off the ball providing the Sidmouth defence with much cause for concern. His movement was helping to create space for others with Sam Wright the main beneficiary. Wright had two fine shots which went close before he helped set up Morgan who rounded his marker before confidently stroking the ball into the corner of the net. Corie Cleave had been introduced at half time and his passing was helping to link the play through midfield, which Sidmouth were now struggling to cope with. The home sides’ supremacy was emphasised when Morgan added a third with an excellent finish from a tight angle following up after a Wright shot was well saved by the keeper. The game apparently won Dawlish abandoned their work rate and discipline allowing Sidmouth back in to the match. Jack Arnold who had replaced Maloney at the back produced some strong, well timed tackles as he and Langley-Pope were forced to resist a determined Sidmouth fight back. Sidmouths efforts were rewarded however from a corner when their left midfielder sneaked in at the far post to force the ball home despite a valiant effort by Ranger on the line. The deficit was nearly reduced further from a long throw, however it was Dawlish who finished the stronger with the Sidmouth keeper forced in to a fine double save to deny Ranger and Wright.
Dawlish United 2-1 Sidmouth Town Viking Warriors
A disciplined and determined display from Dawlish was required to maintain their winning start to the season. A strong Sidmouth side who had already achieved some creditable results this season fought from the first whistle to the last however Dawlish were ultimately too strong with every player contributing to an excellent team performance. A well timed Frank Maloney left foot strike which crashed against the cross bar was the closest either side came to a goal in a tight first half. The second half continued in a similar fashion with a fancy flick from Luke Morgan being the only notable effort. However the game burst into life with three goals in quick succession. Following some Dawlish pressure the ball broke to Jamie Middleton who instantly blasted it into the far top corner with a curling shot from the edge of the penalty area. Sidmouth quickly fought back although it took a moment of good fortune for them to finally beat the excellent Harvey Hannaford in goal. Frank Maloneys clearance from the edge of the area was blocked by an onrushing striker only to ricochet past the wrong footed Hannaford. Matthew Ranger rifled in a long range effort which was well held by the keeper however he was powerless to prevent Luke Morgan from restoring the Dawlish lead moments later. Morgan had been a constant menace to the Warriors defence and he was on hand to apply a cool finish to a slick passing moving between Ranger and Max Armitage. Dawlish were not to let the lead slip again with Hannaford showing confident handling and intelligent distribution in goal and the rest of the team working extremely hard for each other, typified by man of the match Luke Morgan.
20 October 2007
Westexe 2 - 1 Dawlish United 1
Dawlish United knew they we up against a well organised Westexe side and therefore needed to continue with their disciplined and determined start to the season. Unfortunately for United it was this their discipline, determination and lack of team working that was to eventually let them down.
The first 5 mins started brightly but was a tight affair with both teams unable to create any real goal scoring opportunities. On a large pitch the midfield trio of Matthew Ranger, Max Armitage and Jamie Middleton worked hard but somewhat in vain as this failed to create any real chances for Sam Wright upfront. At the back Frankie Maloney and Nick Langley-Pope did well to leave keeper Harvey Hannaford mainly a spectator but what he did, he did well. Nick Langley-Pope in particular again continued with the good work rate he has demonstrated this season.
The United goal came from good work from Matthew Ranger which caused confusion in the Westexe defence and resulted in an own goal. Shortly afterwards, an excellent twisting run from the Westexe forward saw him get passed three United players practically unchallenged and this cancelled out the United advantage.
The second half saw the introduction of Cody Rackley and Jack Arnold coming on in defence and Corie Cleave up front. All three contributed well and further chances saw Max Armitage, Frankie Maloney, Sam Wright all coming close. Jamie Middleton again showed his versatility by changing from a left to a righted side position.
United were caught lacking shape and concentration for the second goal and the players need to reflect on the learning that they can take from this game if they are to continue to build on their promising start to the season.
Alphington 2 – 3 Dawlish United
Dawlish were fortunate to get the result against a determined Alphington side. The first half saw some good early chances created from Max Armitage and Matthew Ranger but these were all thwarted by the Keeper to leave it goalless at half time.
Early in the second half a great run and cross from Jamie Middleton enabled Matthew Ranger to score from close range.
Moments later Sam Wright put together an excellent run beating three players being before being brought down. Up stepped Frankie Maloney who scored a good goal into low into the corner of the goal directly from the free kick.
Man of the match Jamie Middleton was rewarded for his good efforts and became goal scorer from provider when he let fire a good long range effort which left the keeper stranded.
Corie Cleave again demonstrated his bravery and determination and battled well throughout getting injured for the cause.
Coasting at 3-0 United should have had the game easily won but lapses in concentration and discipline saw Alphington get back into the game following an own goal for the unfortunate Jack Arnold who had been having a good game. The second came in the dying moments and was a good goal for Alphington, the finish leaving Harvey Hannaford in gaol no chance when United’s marking seemed to have been abandoned.
A good result but another good learning opportunity for the Dawlish United lads as they continue to face good opposition in the coming weeks.
3rd November 2007
Dawlish United 5 v 0 Central United
An excellent team performance from Dawlish produced a thoroughly deserved win for the home side. After a shaky start, which saw the visitors denied by some assured goalkeeping from Harvey Hannaford and resilient defending from Nick Langley-pope and Frank Maloney Dawlish produced one of their best performances of the season to date. In attack Luke Morgan was starting to apply the pressure, a delightful Matt Ranger pass set him up for his first opportunity, this was soon followed by some delightful skill from the impressive Jamie Middleton which resulted in Morgan’s effort going just wide. Morgan was again denied by an excellent block from Central’s keeper when through one on one. Max Armitage was harassing the visitors’ midfield and it was his excellent closing down which resulted in the ball breaking for Maloney who hit an early through ball for Morgan. He was not to be denied again and drove the ball into the bottom corner. The lead was soon doubled when Morgan turned provider with an accurate ball for Middleton to finish decisively. Changes were made at half time with Cody Rackley replacing Langley-Pope who had looked assured at the back. Rackley continued Langley-Popes good work throughout the second half, assisted by Maloney they provided solid protection for Hannaford in goal. It was at the end however where most of the action was with other substitutes Sam Wright and Corie Cleave linking well and working hard. It was an excellent Cleave pass which provided Morgan with the opportunity to further increase the lead which he was not to pass up. Morgan’s hatrick was soon completed as Dawlish took a commanding 4-0 lead. Dawlish continued to play in a controlled and organised manor and were rewarded with a fifth goal when Morgan supplied a subtle finish to Rackley long throw.
Dawlish United 0 v 1 Central City
Dawlish entered this match with confidence, in search of their third win in succession. However, Central City were in equally determined mood and their hard work and organisation provided a tough test for United. A tight first half saw few chances for either side although the visitors created the clearest opportunities with a close range header and shot from the edge of the box both smartly saved by Hannaford in the Dawlish goal. The midfield trio of Cleave, Armitage and Wright worked hard to create opportunities for Morgan in attack but were stifled by determined defending. The defence of Langley-Pope and Rackley were equally defiant and it looked as if only a mistake or moment of magic would break the deadlock. When the referee awarded Central a freekick on the edge of the penalty area it allowed City the opportunity to conjure a goal from nothing. A dipping, curling strike sailed over the defensive wall before crashing in to the top corner of the net. It was a goal worthy of winning any game and it proved enough to decide this close encounter. Although Dawlish introduced Ranger, Middleton and Maloney at half time which resulted in almost constant pressure, they were unable to break down the visitors defence.
17th November 2007
Credition Saints A 1 - 1 Dawlish United 1
Dawlish United knew they were going to be up against a well organised and determined Credition side following the close encounters from last season. On a cold day the United boys settled well in a first half that was to be a fairly even affair.
Matthew Ranger went close after four minutes with a speculative right foot volley from distance and man of the match Jamie Middleton also went close with a good effort into the side netting shortly after. Jamie’s work rate and determination throughout was particularly notable. Luke Morgan was again in determined mood and came close with one of his efforts before being rewarded with a good individual goal going past the defender to coolly finish. Harvey Hannford in goal produced some excellent kicking but was troubled little with Frankie Maloney and Nick Langley-Pope both in defiant mood and able to absorb increasing Crediton pressure.
At the break Corey Cleave replaced first half Captain Max Armitage with Sam Wright and Jack Arnold also being introduced. The united boys did well to absorb increased Crediton pressure for 5 minutes or so and but they unable to prevent the equaliser following good work from the opposition to create considerable space to score easily. The closing minutes saw United loose some concentration which nearly allowed Crediton the advantage as they hit the post from an unmarked volley and come close shortly after following poor marking. United managed to ride the storm and earned a well deserved draw.
Credition Saints B 0 - Dawlish United 4
The second saw Credition nearly take an early advantage which saw Harvey Hannaford take a great catch. The first few minutes saw pretty end to end football with both sides producing some good play.
Just after 5 minutes Luke Morgan came close with a good effort. Frankie Maloney was unlucky not to score from Max Armitages’ pinpoint corner kick and Max himself went close just after with a good effort.
Luke Morgan opened the scoring with an excellent finish from a Max Armitage headed through ball and this helped the United boys. Sam Wright playing on the left hand side had a good game and saw an excellent cross thwarted through some good defending. Nick Langley-Pope produced another excellent defensive display and went on an excellent run in the dying moments of the first half. He and Jack Arnold were disciplined in defence but once beaten it was another fine save from Harvey Hannaford that maintained the margin at the break.
Just after the break Max Armitages’ brave sliding tackle set up Jamie Middleton to enable him to demonstrate his skills which produced an excellent cross for Corie Cleave to finish well low into the left corner of the goal. Corie got injured shortly afterwards following a brave tackle. After 6 minutes another momentary lapse allowed Credition a good effort which produced another fine save from Harvey Hannford. Harvey’s kicking was again excellent throughout. Man of the match Max Armitage produced another sliding tackle shortly after which typified his determination and his was rewarded for his efforts with a good headed goal courtesy of the Credition defenders chest. Matthew Ranger replaced the tiring Armitage and produced some good passing two touch passing and link play with Sam Wright up front. The forth goal cam from a Luke Morgan corner which produced and excellent header from Frankie Maloney.
15th December 2007
Dawlish United 4 v 1 Exwick
An evenly contested match saw Dawlish eventually overcome a hard working and well organised Exwick side. It was the visitors who started brightly but the Dawlish defence of Frankie Maloney and Nick Langley-Pope tackled hard with the assured handling of Harvey Hannaford in goal spreading confidence throughout the team. Ironically as Dawlish improved they fell behind. Gaining procession just inside the Dawlish half, Exwick burst through the heart of the home defence before neatly finishing in the bottom corner. Undeterred by the setback Dawlish began to match the opposition in every area of the pitch, with Matthew Ranger, Max Armitage and Jamie Middleton working hard to support the excellent Corie Cleave in attack. It was Cleave who pulled United level when he stabbed home a Middleton corner. The game then opened up with chances created and spurned at either end with Hannaford saving down low, a thunderous shot smashed against the Dawlish bar and a Maloney shot was headed off the line. In the second half the home side were able to impose their passing game on the opposition, creating numerous corners which were a constant threat being excellently delivered by Armitage, Middleton and Sam Wright. It was from a Middleton corner that Dawlish fortuitously took the lead when substitute Luke Morgan powered home a penalty after a defender was adjudged to have handled. The Middleton/ Morgan combination proved lethal again a few minutes later when a Middleton cross was headed home by Morgan. Jack Arnold had been introduced to the defence and made some timely interceptions to help protect the lead however, he was powerless to stop a fast break down the left but Hannaford dived low to his right to save. The game was made safe after a Ranger run was stopped by a trip and Morgan despatched the freekick into the top corner to complete an impressive hattrick.
Dawlish United 0 v 1 Thorverton
A biting cold wind and bumpy pitch failed to detract from the quality of this entertaining and enthralling encounter. Unbeaten in nearly two years Thorverton approached the game with a great deal of confidence and it was obvious why they were able to boast such an impressive record. Their slick passing, good organisation and an excellent work ethic were easy to admire however Dawlish were not overawed and more than matched their opponents in every aspect of their play. Harvey Hannaford was confident in goal, Frankie Maloney and Nick Langley-Pope were assured in defence and the midfield trio of Max Armitage, Sam Wright and Jamie Middleton at times over ran and out passed their counterparts. Up front captain Luke Morgan ran tirelessly to create space and create an opening. Despite the quality of the game there were few clear cut opportunities until Morgan started a quick passing move deep inside his own half before sliding a perfect pass to the breaking Middleton who saw his shot very well saved. Dawlish started to apply the pressure and Morgan was denied when his sharp turn and shot was also well saved. Jack Arnold and Matthew Ranger were introduced at half time and continued the good work of their team mates. Hannaford was at his best to keep out a close range effort early in the second half and was largely untroubled until the ball fell kindly for a Thorverton striker who clinically drilled the ball in to the far corner. Great shots from Wright and Morgan were beaten out by the inspired visiting keeper as Dawlish continued to threaten. Corie Cleave was introduced late on and despite his valiant efforts Dawlish were unable to find the break through to earn the draw they so richly deserved.
9th February 2008
DAWLISH UNITED 6 V 1 BRIXINGTON BLUES
Thick fog engulfed the pitch as the sides kicked off. Dawlish struggled to find their way in the early stages and were soon a goal down after they failed to clear a corner with the ball apologetically trickling over the line. However as the fog lifted so did the sides performance, and by half time they were basking in glorious sunshine and a 4-1 lead after a tremendous turn around.
In truth Dawlish could have been even further ahead by this stage, their quick accurate passing was irresistible creating numerous chances. Jamie Middleton spearheaded the assault by making the first goal for himself providing the perfect finish to his direct run. It was Middleton who received an excellent pass out of defence from Frank Maloney before crossing for Max Armitage to fire home. Brixington tried to respond but the defensive pairing of Jack Arnold and Maloney subdued any threat and were often the instigators of many attacks. Harvey Hannaford was assured in goal and Sam Wright up front was unlucky to see a left drive hit the base of the post. The midfield trio of Middleton, Armitage and Matthew Ranger was dominant with Armitage grabbing his second with another fine strike from the edge of the box. Middleton wasn’t to be out done and clinically drilled home his second on the stroke of half time.
Half time substitutes Luke Morgan, Corie Cleave and Nick Langley-Pope slotted in seamlessly. Further chances were created and spurned before Morgan, one on one with the keeper, calmly claimed the fifth. The scoring was complete when Middleton grabbed his hat trick blasting home a Morgan layoff.
Man of the Match; Max Armitage.
DAWLISH UNITED 5 V 0 BROADCLYST
A devastating four goal blitz in eight second half minutes blasted aside Broadclysts dogged resistance. In the first half Dawlish laboured to break down the opposition defence with Matthew Ranger creating the best openings, one of which saw a powerful Corie Cleave header crash against the cross bar. Harvey Hannaford was a virtual spectator in goal as he was well protected by the defensive pairing of Nick Langley-Pope and Jack Arnold. On the stroke of half time Dawlish took the lead when a Luke Morgan lay off set up Sam Wright to bury a left foot drive into the far corner. The lead was almost immediately double when a Ranger shot was well saved, Morgan pounced on the rebound but couldn’t steer his shot on target.
For the second half Dawlish introduced Frank Maloney, Max Armitage and Jamie Middleton and the changes made an instant impact when Middleton smartly finished following a measured Armitage pass. Armitage then hit the post after incisive play involving Morgan and Middleton, it was soon 3-0 however when Middleton intelligently cut the ball back for Ranger who planted a first time left foot cross onto the head of Morgan allowing him the goal his efforts deserved. Dawlish were now rampant and three soon became four following another slick passing move which carved open the visiting defence giving Morgan the opportunity to finish from close range. Middleton smashed a long range shot against the bar before completing the scoring from an acute angle after a Sam Wright shot had been well saved by the visiting keeper.
23rd February 2008
Dawlish United 8 – 0 Pinhoe Gladiators
The Dawlish United boys continued to show their increasing maturity of late with a well disciplined and at times breathtaking performance. Without exception every player demonstrated unselfish play and teamwork that would be the envy of many senior sides. The first goal came from great individual work from man of the match Corie Cleave who finished coolly from an acute angle. Corie worked tirelessly throughout and typified the Dawlish United performance with his notable unselfish passing to create opportunities for his team mates. Indeed it was he that set up the second goal, a header from Matthew Ranger into the corner of the net. Matthew Ranger was unlucky not to add to this with a further couple of chances. Corie Cleave was rewarded for his unselfish play when he scored a good second goal from a corner.
Jamie Middleton was again in a determined mood and showed his class with a great strike into the top left hand corner after 10 mins. He also showed his unselfish play when he linked up well to set up team mate Max Armitage to score from his exquisite pass. In defence Jack Arnold and Frankie Maloney were solid limiting the oppositions’ changes. In the dying minutes of the half, however, they had to thank captain and birthday boy Harvey Hannaford when he produced a fine save.
The second half saw the introduction of Sam Wright and Nick Langley-Pope. Both players continued with a very disciplined defensive display. Sam Wright was unlucky not to score when he saw his blistering volley saved by the keeper. Jamie Middleton scored from a tight angle following a terrific run and added quickly to this to score his second hat trick in as many weeks. Frankie Maloney was unlucky to see his well guided goal bound header hit a defender. It was Frankie that created the last goal for Sam Wright to finish in style in the closing moments.
Dawlish United 4 – 0 Pinhoe Spartans
The Dawlish boys were asked to continue with their discipline and teamwork if they were to get anything against a stronger Pinhoe side and they all responded accordingly. The first chance fell to Max Armitage who was unlucky not to score with a powerful strike that he saw hit the foot of the post. Max had produced a solid midfield performance in both games and it was from his corner that Frankie Maloney opened the scoring with a good finish at the near post. Jamie Middleton quickly added another with an excellent finish with the outside of his right foot from an acute angle. Pinhoe responded well and created several changes which were thwarted by Frankie Maloney and Nick Langley-Pope’s defensive work and when they did break through Harvey Hannaford was not going to be beaten. He demonstrated some great handling and through his pinpoint kicking created several openings.
In the closing moments of the first half Frankie Maloney saw a great effort brilliantly saved by keeper. From the resulting corner Matthew Ranger’s great strike went in off the underside of the cross bar. The second half saw several changes with Jack Arnold replacing Nick Langley-Pope and continuing with his good defensive display with several well timed tackles. Corie Cleave resumed striking responsibilities and was unlucky not to score through his constant chasing. Sam Wright scored an excellent left footed effort following good work from man of the match Jamie Middleton who had produced another very impressive display. In the dying minutes Nick Langley-Pope replaced Corie Cleave up front and was unlucky not to score when he saw a good shot hit the post.
Overall the boys should be very pleased with all of their individual and collective performances. They should look forward to their forthcoming cup quarter final match on 1 March and if they continue with their approach, do so with confidence.
1st March 2008
Exeter Friendly League Cup Quarter Final
Dawlish United 1 – 1 Brixington Blues
(1-1 after extra time, Dawlish United win 2-0 on Penalties)
Both sides started cautiously in what was to be a thrilling cup quarter final. The first period saw a stalemate in midfield with limited chances resulting. Jamie Middleton was again playing well and created a good opportunity for himself after about five minutes, he was unlucky not to score. Shortly afterwards his clever through ball found Matthew Ranger who gave Dawlish United a deserved lead when he was able to direct the ball from a half volley into the bottom corner of the net.
Dawlish United, Captain Max Armitage was completely dominant in midfield. His determination and dominance prevented Brixington from creating any real chances. In the same turn his fearless tacking and constant pressure enabled Dawlish United to create several chances.
Corie Cleave’s constant chasing up front maintained the pressure. Defenders Frankie Maloney and Jack Arnold combined well to limit Brixington’s chances with timely tackling. Max Armitage’s contribution was notable through his exceptional work rate, tackling and passing. This was typified on one occasion when Brixington did manage to break through Maloney and Arnold only to find Max Armitage having tracked back nearly half of the pitch to cover with a timely tackle and clearance. Max’s efforts earned him the man of the match award. Brixington increased the pressure and managed an equaliser just before half time.
The second half saw the introduction of Nick Langley-Pope, Sam Wright and Luke Morgan. Sam was unlucky to see a good shot saved early on. Dawlish United increased the pressure with Morgan and Middleton both going close, Armitage continuing to dominate the midfield with crunching tackles and Langley-Pope and Maloney solid in defence. In the dying moments, United had two corners in succession and saw a great run from Sam Wright but were unable to turn this into a winning goal. The tie went into extra time.
The first period saw continued United pressure with Jamie Middleton coming close following an excellent run and strike into the side netting. Corie Cleave’s excellent shot was well saved. At the other end Brixington too had a couple of chances but were thwarted through a combination of good defending and goalkeeping.
The second period saw Armitage’s shot going just wide and Sam Wright had a good effort well saved. They were unable to break through and penalties resulted. Max Armitage stepped up to see a good strike well saved. Harvey Hannaford again showed his class with a great save in response. Luke Morgan responded with a good strike low into the bottom corner. Harvey Hannaford produced another great save for Brixington’s second. Jamie Middleton was cool under pressure and delivered a great winning strike to earn his side a place in the semi-final.
Dawlish United 4 – 1 Brixington Blues
The opportunity was taken to give the players a 10 a-side friendly afterwards. Dawlish introduced Hannah Parkinson and Ryan Chadwick who both put in good performances. Hannah worked hard in midfield throughout and made several good tackles and passes. Nick Langley-Pope adopted a striking position and saw good efforts well saved on two occasions. Brixington took the lead following a lapse in concentration by United.
In the second period Corie Cleave worked tirelessly and saw a good effort saved but scored following a good tackle from Harvey Hannaford. Ryan Chadwick was solid in defence with good tackling and distribution. Nick Langley-Pope cleverly set up Corie for his second. Max Armitage donned the goalkeeping gloves was brave and produced a couple of great saves, reminiscent of his father. Nick Langley-Pope finally managed to score a poachers goal from close up and Sam Wright concluded the scoring with a long range left footed effort.
8th March 2008
Cullompton Coyotes 0 – 3 Dawlish United
From the kick off Dawlish set about their evenly matched opponents with confidence and Cullompton struggled to cope with United’s excellent passing early on. Matthew Ranger nearly drew first blood when his drive crashed against the cross bar however this appeared to inspire Coyotes but excellent defending from Frankie Maloney and Jack Arnold in particular meant Harvey Hannaford was untroubled in the Dawlish goal. Jack Arnold battled well throughout earning the man of the match award. Jamie Middleton and Luke Morgan were working well down the Dawlish left and Max Armitage worked tirelessly and effectively in central midfield. Ranger capped a fine performance with the opening goal, an earlier shot from the edge of the penalty area had fizzed past the post but second time around he made no mistake with a low drive. Two minutes later the lead was doubled after fine work from Jamie Middleton pressurised the home defence into conceding an own goal. Corie Cleave was introduced to the attack at half time and his intelligent passing and link up play continued to create openings however Coyotes defence was well organised and determined. At times Coyotes showed their qualities with some fine passing and they battled well throughout although it was Dawlish who created the better chances and another Ranger effort flew just over the bar before Middleton completed the scoring with a fine left shot into the bottom corner.
Cullompton Wolves 0 – 3 Dawlish United
A scrappy encounter played in wet and windy conditions eventually saw the visitors triumph largely due to two fine saves from goalkeeper Harvey Hannaford. Twice he saved his team after a Wolves striker had broken through the Dawlish defence. Dawlish tried to respond but were unable to create any clear cut opportunities as Wolves defended determinedly, two long range Jamie Middleton strikes were the closest they came to taking the lead. However as half time approached the deadlock was broken when Nick Langley-Pope rose the highest to head home from a corner. The lead was almost immediately doubled ironically from a Wolves corner. The ball broke to Jamie Middleton who embarked on a jinking run past three opponents from one penalty area to the other only to be bravely denied by the home keeper diving at his feet. Moments later Dawlish managed to grab their second and Middleton was again involved. He linked up with Luke Morgan on the edge of the area to create an opening for Morgan to finish clinically. The second half was a scrappy affair as Dawlish tried to kill the game but Wolves battled resiliently, forcing Hannaford to make another smart stop following a corner. Late on Dawlish sealed another fine victory when Corie Cleave grabbed the goal his efforts deserved as he latched on to a measured Luke Morgan pass.
22nd March 2008
Dawlish United 2 - 0 Kentisbeare
Two first half goals were sufficient to secure a comfortable win for Dawlish despite a bumpy pitch and strong wind. However the visitors started brighter and applied early pressure which was thwarted by the defensive pairing of Nick Langley-Pope and Jack Arnold. As the half progressed Dawlish gradually started to find their passing with Sam Wright and Matthew Ranger exploiting space in wide areas and a typically combative performance by Max Armitage in the middle helping to supply Luke Morgan up front. In recent weeks Dawlish have demonstrated some excellent passing but today they also employed a more direct approach with the kicking of Harvey Hannaford in goal a constant threat. The home side took the lead when an Armitage corner was bundled home by Sam Wright. Efforts from Ranger, Wright and Morgan nearly increased the lead before Morgan turned sharply after receiving another Hannaford clearance and clinically finished in the far corner. The second half saw the introduction of Frankie Maloney and Jamie Middleton. Continuous pressure from Dawlish was not rewarded with the goals their play deserved mainly due to inspired goalkeeping from the Kentisbeare custodian. Middleton saw a thunderous shot hit the bar and Morgan went close with another quick turn and shot. Middleton was also unlucky to see a low drive skim the post after smart play with Morgan.
St Martins 0 - 0 Dawlish United
A tight and tense affair between these two local rivals failed to find a winner as they battled out an entertaining draw. The first half produced few scoring opportunities with Dawlish going closest with two long range efforts. Max Armitage created space after combining with Jamie Middleton before firing in an exquisite shot which the keeper did well to tip over the bar. His hands were still stinging when he denied Jamie Middleton with another long range drive. Sam Wright worked hard to find space upfront but Matthew Ranger and the rest of the midfield were being pressed back to assist the defensive pair of Nick Langley-Pope and Frankie Maloney. Harvey Hannaford in goal was largely untroubled until the stroke of half time when the home side skimmed the outside of the post. Hannaford was forced to pull off a fine save when St Martins broke through at the beginning of the second half but from this point on the game was played almost entirely in the home sides half. Luke Morgan was brought on at half time and caused constant problems and was unfortunate to have one effort cleared off the line. Sam Wright forced another fine save from the St Martins keeper and despite the odd break away from the home side Dawlish always looked the most likely to clinch the win but it was not to be.
5th April 2008
Heavitree Kestrels 0 – 6 Dawlish United
On a big pitch Dawlish United settled quickly and produced an excellent display of flowing passing and a well disciplined team performance.
Matt Ranger scored the first goal with a cool and composed finish following good work from Captain Luke Morgan who was in impressive mood. Max Armitage was in his usual determined mood and was unlucky to see two shots saved in succession. Sam Wright scored a good individual goal with a good left foot drive. Harvey Hannaford in goal was a relative spectator but showed good concentration with a good save following a rare defensive lapse.
United started the second half brightly, Sam Wright scored his second from a Jamie Middlleton corner. Luke Morgan was rewarded for his work rate when his long range effort gave the keeper no chance. Corie Cleave was unlucky to see his shot hit the post shortly after.
Frankie Maloney and Nick Langley-Pope were very disciplined in defence which resulted in no real goal scoring opportunities for the opposition. Jamie Middleton scored a good second goal from a pinpoint pass from Luke Morgan. Max Armitage saw a header go just wide before Jamie Middleton completed the scoring with a solo effort.
Heavitree Buzzards 0 – 8 Dawlish United
Dawlish United continued where they left off with some impressive football. Jamie Middleton opened the scoring with his best effort of the day into the top corner. He then provided the assist to set up Luke Morgan for United’s second shortly afterwards. Matt Ranger again showed a cool head with a good finish from the edge of the box.
Several changes were then made to give players the opportunity to play in different positions with Corie Cleave, Sam Wright, Jamie Middleton, Max Armitage and Matt Ranger all being rotated in turn to take up defensive responsibilities.
The fourth goal came following a Max Armitage powerful strike from distance which Jamie Middleton cleverly back heeled past the keeper.
In the second half Harvey Hannaford took up a midfield position and was unfortunate following his hard work not to score. Corie Cleave donned the gloves but was not called to use them. Jamie Middleton scored to claim his hat-trick from another great pass from Luke Morgan. Luke Morgan was rewarded for his unselfish play quickly following up on a Harvey Hannaford shot to score from close range. Jamie Middlelton scored a forth following a good run and cool finish past the stranded keeper. The final goal came from Luke Morgan following a goal mouth scramble which completed his hat-trick.
All of the players should be pleased with their disciplined and team performance which sets them up nicely for the Cup Semi Final encounter on 12 April at home to Central city, kick off 10.30.
3rd May 2008
Good pressure from Max Armitage and Matthew Ranger in midfield ensured Westexe were unable to respond and Jamie Middleton completed his hat trick with another quality goal into the top corner.