AFC U14s 2,

Chudleigh Athletic 1

Dartmouth returned to league action with the visit of top of the table Chudleigh, who had previously won their opening two fixtures.

In a hard-fought encounter between two excellent footballing sides, the young Darts ran out close winners.

On a perfect surface at Longcross, Dartmouth began well and Henry Rodwell-Lynn had the first chance when he cut in from the left wing brilliantly, only to see his goalbound effort blocked by a great tackle.

Cameron Webb then produced a similar mazy run before having a massive shout for a penalty waved away after a strong challenge in the box.

At the other end Arron Morrison needed to be alert and the visitors had a goal ruled out for an offside.

The match was flowing from end to end as Jamie Burrows was thwarted by the Chudleigh 'keeper.

With 30 minutes on the clock, the first goal did arrive and it was one to remember for striker Tom Matthews.

The summer signing from KM United showed superb composure to collect Liam Wadeson's ball over the top and lob the on-rushing 'keeper just outside the box, before smashing his shot high into the empty net. With a slender lead at the break, Dartmouth knew their opponents would come out all guns blazing and some early pressure resulted in an equaliser. The response from Dartmouth was fantastic.

Liam Wadeson, Joe Turner and Kieran Doyle all went close before Webb picked up possession, charging into the box, before being tripped for a blatant penalty.

Turner duly despatched it for 2-1. In the dying minutes of the game Darts needed a wonder save from the superb Aaron Morrison to hold on for the three points.

The Dartmouth match ball was kindly sponsored by Joppy Pillar of Pillar's Newsagents and this Sunday it's another home game, this time in the League Cup against Waldon Athletic.

Kick-off is 11am so please continue the tremendous support.