vs Hobgoblin Old Boys (H)

Off the back of two great wins the Devy were looking to consolidate their position at the top of the league, having never played the Hobgoblin before this was to be an intriguing encounter.

The team was now looking to have a familiar look about it with many players looking to make their position their own.

The game started evenly enough with neither side managing any chances. The Devy were having lots of good possession early on, Terry and Russell getting some time on the ball but no end result, the Hobgoblin were closing down well and eventually got the first chance, a great turn by their striker put him through on goal, 1 on 1, Jeff was beaten, but with the whole goal to aim at he put the ball wide, the Devy got off lightly there, but could they recover from their near loss?

Yes they could!

A long ball from the back found Gareth on the edge of the area, one touch to his left and he unleashed a powerful low drive into the far corner, a brilliant strike, 1 chance 1 goal. Devonshire Arms 1 - 0 Hobgoblin.

The Devy felt that they deserved their lead, Simon and Richie were battling well in midfield, both full backs were also looking strong, Nick had settled in particularly well on his debut.

The Hobgoblin were starting to press now and eventually made a breakthrough, a good pass through fell to their striker who turned Mike and made no mistake with the finish. Devonshire Arms 1 – 1 Hobgoblin.

The Devonshire Arms had only themselves to blame, their long ball game was not paying off, and it was not long before they were to be punished again, Richie tried to do a bit too much and his attempted clearance ricocheted to the Hobgoblin striker who slotted the ball past the diving Jeff. Devonshire Arms 1 – 2 Hobgoblin.

The Devy almost equalised soon after, Russell's long range strike crashing back off the crossbar.

Half time

The Devy had a stern talking to at half time, Andy making everyone aware that there would be changes if people were not giving 100%.

Gareth and Dan were looking to pounce on any opportunity at this stage, unfortunately they were restricted to long range efforts. Changes were made for the Devonshire Arms, Sam and Gary came on for Russell and Simon, both were looking to improve the Devy's chances.

The Hobgoblin were also struggling to get any chances, Mike and Brooks were defending better this half.

Nick had to leave his debut game early with an ankle injury, little little J would replace him moving onto the left wing, Terry would drop and play left back.

The Devy created a number of chances, Dan blasting over from the edge of the area and Gareth seeing a good effort flash wide.

Time had run out for the Devy, Brooks and Jeff did well late on to deny the Hobgoblin a third but it was to be the first defeat of the season.

Final Score: Devonshire Arms 1 – 2 Hobgoblin

Devonshire Arms Line up:
GK: Jeff Udoh
RB: Jason Williams
CB: Mike Davis
CB: David Brooks
LB: Nick Webb
CM: Simon Hall
CM: Richie Fenn
RM: Russell Boltryk
LM: Terry Hall
CF: Gareth Arzu
CF: Dan Fisk
Subs used: Jason Stonebridge, Sam Queeley, Gary Rose

To report a correction of information or to send any comments or reports please email info@devonshirearmsfc.co.uk