Second Team Match Reports
Colyton 2nd 3 v 4 Halwill 2nd
A long trip away to Colyton awaited Halwill as they looked to get all 3 points against a side only a few points behind them. Halwill again had a strong squad with the only player missing was right back Dean Rogers who was replaced by Ric Wonnacott and had Chris Barkwill return after his travels.
Halwill did not get off to a great start and were soon 1 nil down when a quick near post shot caught goalkeeper Bob Morgan off guard. Things got worse for Halwill and the score became 2 nil with a similar shot due to the Halwill defence not closing down and gave the striker too much space. 2 nil soon become 3 half way through the first half. An easy header for an unmarked player at the back post gifted the home team their 3rd of the game. Halwill seemed to be all over the place as each Colyton attack resulted in a goal. Halwill did grab a vital goal 5 mins from half time when striker Tim Shaw ran onto a trough ball and powerfully drove the shot in to the bottom corner and at half time, Halwill knew at 3-1 down, they where more than capable of getting back into the game.
Straight from kick off Halwill looked a much better side. They used the width well on a large pitch and within 2 mins Tim Shaw popped up to score his second of the game. A great run down the left from Jimmy Sowden ended in a beautiful cross for Tim Shaw to run onto and hit first time in to the back of the net which the keeper could do nothing about. The home side where rocked by the early goal and looked nervous with Halwill pushing forward more and more. Halwill grabbed the equalised halfway through the second half after some great work from Johnny Knight and Tim Shaw. Johnny Knights first time strike outside the box floated into the top corner far from the reach of the home keeper after a lay off from Tim. Halwill pushed for the winner and Colyton struggled to produce any real chances for themselves as the Halwill defence where on fine form in the second half to make up for their first half mistakes. Pete Holland and Mark Wonnacott where battling hard in the heart of defence and kept Colytons strikers at bay.
With a strike worthy of goal of the season, Halwill found a winner with 10 mins left. A quick long throw from left back Jonathan Finch fell to the feet of Tim Shaw on the edge of the box and in 2 quick moves turned his marker and unleashed a curling shot that sailed into the top corner from 20 yards and an outstanding hatrick in only his 7th game of the season. It was an amazing and well fought comeback from Halwill and what a goal to take the lead. Tom Coe almost made it 5 when he rounded the keeper but the angle was too tight as his shot hit the side netting. Halwill survived a late charge from the home team as they threw everything at them and the fulltime whistle was welcomed by the Halwill players. Once again, Halwills great team spirit and fine performances over the last few weeks really showed today!
Team: Bob Morgan, Jonathan Finch, Ric Wonnacott, Mark Wonnacott, Pete Holland, Charlie Nicholas, Shaun Knight, Johnny Knight, Jimmy Sowden, Tim Shaw, Chris Barkwill
Subs: Alan Knight, Tom Coe, Mike Doidge
Goals: Tim Shaw (3), Johnny Knight
Met Office 3 v 3 Halwill 2nd
Hawill travelled to the Exeter full of confidence after their impressive team performance the week before againt the league leaders. The Met Office where next up for Halwill and manager Alan Knight had a full squad to choose from. Johnny Knight returned in the centre of midfield for the only change to the starting line up.
Halwill started the brightest and where playing some of their best football of the season. It did not take Halwill long to open the scoring when leading scorer Jimmy Sowden latched onto a through ball and cooly slotted the ball past the keeper. Halwill where very comfortable and passed the ball well all around the pitch. The Met Office found themselves a lucky equaliser when a clearance from defender Pete Holland rebounded off the back of an Met Office player only to se the ball loop over Halwill goalie Bob Morgan. Halwill where soon back in front when it was the Met Offices defenders who returned the favour and scored an own goal after the defener rushed a pack pass and over hit it which caught their keeper off guard. Just before half time, Halwill grabbed a third goal as they crused into the half time break 3-1 up. Some hesitation from the home defence gave Jimmy Sowden a chance to poke the ball into the net for his second of the game.
In the second half, the wind was aginst Halwill but they where very comfortable for the first 20 mins of the half. Halwill created some great chances and Charlie Nicholas seemed destined to score with his low stike only for the shot to be blocked by his own team mate Jimmy who was lying on the floor!!! The Met office got back into the game half way through the second half with a close range shot and it was not soon after the scores where level when a lobg range strike rebouded off the inside of the post and into the net. Halwill had let their lead slip and applied the pressure to get a winner late on. As both teams pushed for a winner, it was Halwill who would come closest with a srtike from Jimmy Sowden trickled towards goal to then hit the post.
The game ended 3-3 and the Hawill players knew they coud have taken all 3 points. Again a good all round team performance and the lads seem to be really enjoying their football which shows on the pitch.
Team: Bob Morgan, Dean Rogers, Pete Holland, Mark Wonnacott, Jonathan Finch, Johnny Knight, Shaun Knight, Charlie Nicholas, Mark Pilbrow, Jimmy Sowden, Tim Shaw
Subs: Dale Harris, Tim Down, Tom Coe
Goals: TJimmy Sowden (2), Met Office O.G.
Beacon Knights 2 v 2 Halwill 2nds
After a hard fought victory the previous week, Halwill travelled to league leaders Beacon Knights. On a sunny Saturday afternoon, spirits where high and the team where out to enjoy the day.
The game started rather equal with both teams having good spells of posession and Halwill seemed to copewith the Beacon Knights pace. After 15 minutes the home side tok the lead with hopeful long ball into the box fell to a home stiker whos simlpe pass split the Halwill defence and created a easy shot on goal. 10 mins later Halwil where 2 nil down with a very simlar goal from a long ball. Halwill did have two god chances to get back into the game from JImmy Sowden and Tim Shaw.
At half time, Halwill knew they had matched the league leaders and althought 2 goals down, they could make a game of it in the second half. It did not take Halwill long to get on the goal sheet and Tim Shaw claimed his 4th goal in 4 games for Halwill with a stunning low shot into the right corner from 25 yards which caught the home keeper off guard. Both teams applied pressure as the home defence got nervous. Halwill found the equaliser half way through the second half when Jommy Sowden found himself in the middle of a goal mouth scramble to sot the ball home from close range.
Although the home team pilled on the pressure for the remainder of the match, the Halwiil defence stood strong and cleared any danger with keeper Bob Morgan in fine form. 2 - 2 it ended and a great result for Halwill who fought to the very end in their best team display of the season!
Team: Bob Morgan, Dean Rogers, Pete Holland, Mark Wonnacott, Jonathan Finch, Tom Coe, Shaun Knight, Charlie Nicholas, Mark Pilbrow, Jimmy Sowden, Tim Shaw
Subs: Dale Harris, Tim Down
Goals: Tim Shaw, Jimmy Sowden
Halwill 2nd 3 v 2 Exmouth Arms
In another game against a team at the wrong end of the table, Halwill where missing regulars Jonathan Finch and Jimmy Sowden. After missing early chances, the home side took the lead when Tom Coe headed in from close range. The visitors soon equalised in controversial circumstances when keeper Bob Morgan appeared to be fouled but the referee saw different. Things got worse for Halwill as Exmouth Arms took the lead against the run of play only for Tim Shaw to equalise with a stunning finish after a great pass from Mark Wonnacott.
Despite having most of the play in the second half, the next goal would not come for Halwill until Shaun Knight was brought down and the referee pointed to the penalty spot. Craig Darby stepped up and calmly slotted the ball home. This was not as convincing as our last home victory but in the end it was another 3 valuable points.
Team: Bob Morgan, Dean Rogers, Ric Wonnacott, Mark Wonnacott, Pete Holland, Charlie Nicholas, Shaun Knight, Johnny Knight, Tom Coe, Tim Shaw, Craig Darby
Subs: Lee Knight, Alan Knight, Tim Down
Goals: Tom Coe, Tim Shaw, Craig Darby
Cheriton Fitzpane 4 v 2 Halwill 2nd
For this quarter final match in the Geary Cup Halwill visited Cheriton Fitzpane who where a division above Halwill. Pete Holland was the only regular missing so Bob Morgan filled in as goal keeper. Halwill had a strong squad in what would be a game of controversy, muddy pitch and windy conditions.
Halwill started the game against the wind but that did not stop them creating the better chances with Jimmy Sowden, Craig Darby and Johnny Knight troubling the home defenders on every attack. Halwill kept the home team at bay and only few long range shots was all they could find and never took advantage of the wind on their side. Against the run of play it was the home side who took the lead when Halwill failed to close down a lucky toe poke which was helped into the top corner by the wind. Halwill soon found an equaliser when in form Jimmy Sowden ran onto a through ball and was one on one with the keeper and cooly slotted the ball into the right corner of the net. Both teams started to create more chances in the first half and 5 minutes from half time the home team took the lead once again when a looping cross fell at the back post for a simple tap in. At half time Halwill knew they had been the better team and was ready to use the wind to their advantage in the second half.
It was the home side who struck first to make the score 3 -1 with a sliced header somehow fund the inside of the far post and bounced in the net. Halwill did not give up and spent the next 40 minutes in the opponents half. Defender Ben Potter got a quick goal back for Halwill when he hit a 30 yard free kick low and hard and flew trough a sea of defenders and a helpless goalkeeper. Halwill knew they were right back in it and had the momentum to score more.
Soon after, Jimmy Sowden was fouled just inside the box but the referee only gave a free kick as he thought the foul was outside the box. Up stepped Johnny Knight to whip the ball directly in the top corner for the equaliser. As the Halwill players where celebrating, the referee had a chat with the linesman. Although the referee so no problem wit the goal, the Cheriton Fitzpane substitute who was the linesman said there had been a push and although no home player had complained about the goal, the referee ruled out the goal. All Halwill players felt cheated as the linesman had been making wrong decisions all game and clearly had no idea about fair play and rules!!!
Even though Halwill had been robbed of a goal, they applied more pressure with chances from Jimmy Sowden, Tom Coe, Craig Darby and Tom Ogborne but the equaliser could not be found. The home team made it 4 - 2 with their second attack of the second half with a shot at the near post. The game ended with both teams making some strong tackles and the temperature began to rise. With time running out Halwill knew they could be proud of their efforts as they deserved more that what they got as the home team made it through to the semi finals with a little help from their linesman!!
Team: Bob Morgan, Dean Rogers, Tom Ogborne, Ben Potter, Jonathan Finch, Charlie Nicholas, Shaun Knight, Johnny Knight, Mark Wonnacott, Jimmy Sowden, Craig Darby
Subs: Tom Coe, Mark Pilbrow, Ric Wonnacott
Goals: Jimmy Sowden, Ben Potter
Halwill 2nd 4 v 0 Winkleigh 2nd
In a must win game against a Winkleigh side in the bottom three in the league, Halwill made a few tactical changes after a mixed performance the week before.
Halwill started brightly and with Johnny Knight and Shaun Knight pulling the strings in midfield, they stormed in to a two goal lead half time lead thanks to two great finishes by the lively Jimmy Sowden. The second half continued in the same way as the first with Halwill going forward at every opportunity. Thomas Coe came on as sub and scored with his first touch after a shot come pass from the influential Pete Holland. Fifteen minutes from time, Lee Knight, who also can on as sub was put through by brother shaun and he calmly scored past the advancing goalkeeper for his first goal after being out injured for over 4 years with a back injury. In the end a great team performance by the whole side.
Team: Bob Morgan, Dean Rogers, Ric Wonnacott, Mark Wonnacott, Jonathan Finch, Charlie Nicholas, Shaun Knight, Johnny Knight, Pete Holland, Tim Shaw, Jimmy Sowden.
Subs: Lee Knight, Tom Coe, Dale Harris
Goals: Jimmy Sowden (2), Tom Coe, Lee Knight
Newton St Cyres 7 v 2 Halwill 2nd
After a great result the week before, this was not the result Halwill expected. With many players missing Halwill gave first starts to the season for new comers Tim Shaw and Dale Harris.
The first 10 minutes of the game where very even with not many chances but the game turned when a 30 yard shot hit the inside of the post amd went in from the home team. They did not stop there and every attack in the first half resulted in a goal and Halwill found themselves 5 nil down at half time.
After a reshuffle at the back, Halwill started to get hold of the game and produced some chances. Tim Shaw was the star of the Halwill team as he netted 2 goals so make the score line slightly less painful. The home team grabbed another two themselves in the second half to make the final score 7 - 2. Yet another game where Halwill pushed the self destruct button.
Team: Pete Holland, Tom Coe, Dean Rogers, Paul Sanders, Jonathan Finch, Dale Harris, Bob Morgan, Charlie Nicholas, Jimmy Sowden, Johnny Knight, Tim Shaw
Subs: Alan Knight, Tim Down
Goals: Tim Shaw (2)
Halwill 2nd 5 v 2 Bradninch
Earlier in the season, Halwill where defeated 8-1 by Bradninch and this was a game many Halwill players had been looking forward to since that defeat. With midfielder Mark Wonnacott and striker John Richards missing, Halwill still put together a very strong team, Johnny Knight and Craig Darby formed an excellent pair upfront while the defence and midfield where equally as solid.
Both teams had early chances but it was the away team who took the lead early in the first half. A simple cross come shot floated over the head of Halwill keeper Pete Holland who could not reach the dipping ball. Halwill drove straight forward and got a very quick equaliser when midfielder Phil Wonnacott leaped highest in a crowded penalty area to head home a well taken corner by Craig Darby. There was a real buzz about the Halwill team today and every player where giving 100% and started to create more chances. Jimmy Sowden worked hard on the left wing to create opportunities for the two Halwill strikers as they troubled a nervous Bradninch keeper on a number of occasions. Halwill soon found themselves in the lead when another Craig Darby corner caught a defender off guard for him to slice the ball into his own net, 2-1 to Halwill.
Halwills back four where having a solid game and cut out any danger from Bradninch. Dean Rogers, Ben Potter, Tom Ogborne and Jonathan Finch kept things simple and with time on the ball started off more Halwill attacks. Skipper Shaun Knight worked hard in central midfield with Phil Wonnacott and helped get balls wide to wingers Jimmy Sowden and Ric Wonnacott. With the whole team working well, Halwill soon got back on the score sheet minutes before half time. A fabulous ball over the defenders heads by Dean Rogers put Johnny Knight through on goal and with a first time volley, lobbed the on coming goal keeper and Halwill took a 2 goal lead in to half time.
Halwill started the second half just like the first with both strikers having great chances but a fresh Bradninch goal keeper made some great saves. Against the run of play, it was the away team who got the first goal of the second half. A through ball found the striker who took the ball around Halwills keeper to slot it in the goal. The scores remained 3-2 for much of the second half but Halwill carried on applying pressure and Phil Wonnacott soon got his second of the game with a spectacular diving header into the bottom left corner. There was some controversy from the away team as they claimed for offside but neither the referee or linesman where interested in the shouts, 4-2 to Halwill.
Halwill made a number of second half substitutes, on came Tom Coe, ‘Charlie’ Nicholas and ‘Bob’ Morgan for Dean Rogers, Ric Wonnacott and Jimmy Sowden. Halwill made the game safe 10 minutes from time when Johnny Knights low drive was saved and pushed wide only for a charging Tom Coe to smash the ball in to the net from a tight angle and get his first goal of the season. Halwill had further opportunities before the final whistle from both strikers but the away keeper kept the score 5-2. A well deserved Halwill victory which had been coming for the last few games and made up for the defeat earlier in the season. A great team performance with some neat football on a soft pitch will give Halwill a boost and a jump up the league table.
Team: Pete Holland, Dean Rogers, Tom Ogborne, Ben Potter, Jonathan Finch, Jimmy Sowden, Phil Wonnacott, Shaun Knight, Ric Wonnacott, Craig Darby, Johnny Knight
Subs: ‘Charlie’ Nicholas, ‘Bob’ Morgan, Tom Coe
Goals: Phil Wonnacott (2), Johnny Knight, Tom Coe, 1. o.g.
Halwill 2nd 3 v 4 Bampton
For the first time all season Halwill had the luxury of fielding the same starting 11 for two games running again with a strong subs bench for support. After 3 successive draws, Halwill knew they where capable of getting a win after some good performances. Bampton made the trip to Halwill and where having a good season themselves sitting in 3rd position in the league.
Halwill started the brightest creating a good attack in the first minutes and getting an early corner. The game seemed evenly matched as Halwill where playing with great team spirit and confidence. On a sticky Halwill pitch, it was going to be a hard fought game for both teams. After some good pressure from the home side, it was Bampton who took the lead. A quickly whipped in cross from right unfortunately found the head of Halwill left back Jonathan Finch who’s attempted clearing header found the bottom corner of his own net. Although red faced, the defender picked himself up and Halwill applied more pressure with a solid strike force of Craig Darby and John Richards working hard. With Craig Darby driving towards the Bampton defenders, a clumsy challenge resulted in a penalty for Halwill and Craig Darby slotted neatly home to level the scores. At Half time things where fairly even but Halwill knew the game could be won with a little more hard work.
As the second half started, Bampton where the quickest off the blocks scoring two goals in quick succession to make the score 3-1. Both times the Bampton striker got to a through ball before the Halwill defence and slotted it into the net. Halwill pushed forward again and the introduction of Johnny Knight fresh back from his honeymoon and Fraser House in midfield gave Halwill more options and soon found Craig Darby and Johnny Knight giving the away defence problems. Darby got on the score sheet again with a calm finish under the keeper with pressure from 3 defenders. Halwill found themselves back in the game and had plenty of possession as they pushed for a equaliser. That eventually came with fantastic header from Johnny Knight that gave the keeper no chance and the scores where level. As Halwill pushed for the winner, a lack of concentration at the back gave Bampton the lead with 5 minutes left. A similar goal again to their previous two left Halwill angry and frustrated at themselves after they had worked so hard to get the scores level and seemed to be the better team in the second half.
As the ref blew for full time, Halwill knew they had thrown the game away. With some hard work in previous weeks, surely a win must be just around the corner!!
Team: Pete Holland, Tom Coe, Dean Rogers, Ben Potter, Jonathan Finch, Shaun Knight, Mark Wonnacott, Charlie Nicholas, Jimmy Sowden, John Richards, Craig Darby
Subs: Tom House, Fraser House, Johnny Knight
Goals: Johnny Knight, Craig Darby (2)
Halwill 2nd 3 v 3 Amory Argyle
After two hard fought draws, the confidence was starting to creep back into the Halwill team as they hosted Amory Argyle only 3 weeks since they last met which resulted in a 2 all draw. Halwill has the luxury of fielding a very strong side with Ben Potter and Craig Darby coming into the starting line up with Tom House, Fraser House and Ric Wannacott making up a strong subs bench. Jonathan Finch came back in at left back making way for Jimmy Sowden to regain his left wing position.
Halwill started the strongest with Craig Darby and John Richards working well together and creating good chances and any attack from the away team was broke down by a hard working midfield combination of Jimmy Sowden, Charlie Nicholas, Mark Wonnacott and Shaun Knight. It was the home side who got on the score sheet first when Ben Potter thumped a long free kick into the left corner where Craig Darby waited unmarked to receive the ball and float it to the back post for skipper Shaun Knight to head home. After the goal, Amory became even more frustrated as any possession was broke down by a hard working Halwill team. The home side where forced into an early substitution when centre back Dean Rogers had to be replaced by Ric Wonnacott with a bloody nose. Halwill almost made it two when an acrobatic diving header from tiny Charlie Nicholas nearly found the back of the net which would have been a goal to remember for the 3ft midfielder!! At half time, Halwill felt they deserved the lead.
Amory picked up the pace in the second half and soon got an equaliser when a loose ball on the edge of the box fell to a Amory player who’s low shot was placed just wide of Halwill keeper Pete Holland. The away team soon found themselves two nil up when their striker hit a nice shot on the turn beat the home defence and goalkeeper but Halwill knew there was time to get back into the game after being in the lead at one stage. Charlie Nicholas and John Richards were replaced by the House brothers to bring on fresh legs. Halwill’s break came when Craig Darby latched on to a through ball to slot his shot nicely underneath the keeper and had just enough pace to reach the back of the net.
Halwill gathered momentum again and drove forward and where inches way from taking the lead. Craig Darby again as he looped the ball over the Amory keeper but the ball tricked inches wide of the post when all the Halwill players where ready to celebrate. Against the run of play, Amory again where ahead with a cheeky lofted ball floated over the head of Pete Holland after he worked his way past the Halwill defence. With 5 minutes to go Halwill were awarded a penalty when Jimmy Sowden was brought down by the Amory keeper after Jimmy has rounded him and was heading on goal for what would have been a certain goal. Craig Darby stepped up to make the score level yet again. Amory had one final chance to take all 3 points but some last ditch tackling from the Halwill defence made sure the score remained level at full time.
With 3 draws in their last 3 games, each one could have easily been lost or won, Halwill are picking up points again slowly and growing as a team again like they did earlier in the season.
Team: Pete Holland, Tom Coe, Dean Rogers, Ben Potter, Jonathan Finch, Shaun Knight, Mark Wonnacott, Charlie Nicholas, Jimmy Sowden, John Richards, Craig Darby
Subs: Tom House, Fraser House, Ric Wonnacott
Goals: Shaun Knight, Craig Darby (2)
North Tawton 2nd 2 v 2 Halwill 2nd
Once again it was a question of getting a squad together with many regular players unavailable. In the end on Friday night we had 12 players including manager Alan Knight and linesman Mike Doidge.
The team changed on Saturday morning as the first team game was cancelled because of a combination of a wet pitch and faulty showers due to recent frost and after a phone call between managers Andrew Winser and Alan Knight resulted in Alan resting himself and Mike and bringing in Adam Bewes, the House brothers Tom and Fraser and Winnie himself into the squad.
The home side took the lead when a cross that looked to be going wide swirled in the strong wind and went in the top corner of the net but in an evenly contested first half Halwill also had chances with Shaun Knight, Tom House and John Richards all going close. Against the strong wind in the first half the back four of Tom Coe, Adam Bewes, Dean Rogers and emergency left back Jimmy Sowden and keeper Pete Holland did a tremendous job of keeping the score to one nil at half time.
Hawill started the second half strongly with Mark Wonnacott and ‘Charlie’ Nicholas prompting well from the centre of midfield but against the ruin of play the home side broke clear and a clinical finish put North Tawton two ahead. Tom house limped off to be replaced by Mark ‘Bob’ Morgan and ‘Charlie’ Nicholas and John Richards also went off to be replaced by Fraser and Winnie twenty minutes from time. Halwill were given a life line fifteen minutes from the end when ‘Bob’ Morgan scored with a low hard shot into the corner of the net and Halwill laid siege on the North Tawton goal. In the eighty fifth minute Fraser house brought Halwill level with a long range effort that gave the home keeper no chance. Winnie then had a free kick saved by the keeper only for Mark Pilbrow to score from the rebound only to be ruled out by a linesman’s flag. Shaun Knight also had a goal disallowed for offside before the end.
As the final whistle blew Halwill felt they could have had three points but in the end another great come back by the squad to give Halwill a valuable point but with players missing each week it may be delve into the January transfer window for Halwill!
Goals: Mark 'Bob' Morgan, Fraser House
Amory Argyle 2 v 2 Halwill 2nd
Halwill started off the new year with a visit to Amory Argyle on a very hard frozen pitch. After a run a poor results, Halwill where keen to start 2009 brightly as they try and pull themselves up the table. With key striker Johnny Knight missing and central defender Richard Wonnacott also unable to play, Halwill brought in Tom House and Phil Wonnacott to strenghten up the team.
The game began well for both teams with both sets of strikers seeing plenty of the ball. Halwill's Mark Pilbrow combined well with Shaun Knight down the right on a few occasions and soon tested the home goalkeeper with a series of crosses but the tall figure of Tom House could not get the ball to his feet to find any clear chances on goal. The home team had a mixture of height and pace up front and had the Halwill defence working hard but the partnership of Tom Coe, Dean Rogers, Phil Wonnacott and Jonathan Finch worked well as they cleared any danger. As the defenders seemed to have control over the game, one moment of hesitation saw the home team take the lead. Halwill failed to clear a long ball into the box and it was a simple 6 yard shot for their striker that keeper Pete Holland could do nothing about. Halwill soon found themselves 2 nil down when a low drive from the right was again not cleared and another simple tap in was slotted into the net.
After a half time team talk, Halwill knew they had to repond quickly and get back in the game which they did early in the second half when winger Jimmy Sowden curled a delighful shot from the edge of the box into the bottom right corner which had the home keeper scrambling to reach it. This definitely lifted the spirits of the Halwill team and from then on all the attacks came from them. The midfield combo of Mark Wonnacott and Charlie Nicholas worked well and helped strikers Tom and Mark find space to attack the defenders and put some pressure on the keeper. Halwill brought on Fraser House in midfield and Mark Morgan in attack to help apply more pressure with fresh legs. With 20 minutes left, Halwill brough on Andrew Winser which helped create more chances for the wawy team with some good hold up play. Amorys only chance of the second half brought a superb reation save from Pete Holland low to his left to help keep Halwill in with a chance of and equaliser as a home goal would have sealed the game.
With only minutes left on the clock, Halwill got a much deserved equaliser as Phil Wonnacott rose above eveybody to head in a well taken corner directly into the top corner and with seconds left in the game, skipper Shaun Knight had a chance to grab a late winner but a hopeful lunge from an Amory defender blocked any chance of a goal and was the last action of the game. A muchimproved second half will have lifted the spirits of the players and hopefuly build on their performance in their next game.
Team: Pete Holland, Tom Coe, Dean Rogers, Phil Wonnacott, Jonathan Finch, Shaun Knight, Charlie Nicholas, Mark Wonnacott, Jimmy Sowden, Tom House, Mark Pilbrow.
Subs: Andrew Winser, Fraser House, Mark Morgan
Goals: Jimmy Sowden, Phil Wonnacott
Bampton 3 v 1 Halwill 2nd
Halwill, once again missing several players, put in a much improved performance against top of the table Bampton on a pitch which was frozen solid down one side. With Jonathan Finch missing and other players in the first team 'squad' Halwill were forced to play John Knight despite a back injury and Shaun Knight who suffered a head injury last week. Charlie Nicholas who picked up a knee injury last week and Lee Knight, who has not played for over four years, due to a career-ending injury were also on the substitutes bench.
Halwill took the game to Bampton from the first whistle and John Richards was unlucky not to score on a couple of occasions, before Bampton scored right on the stroke of half-time with a rather fortuitous effort. Halwill didn't let their heads drop though and started the second half well before Bampton scored their second goal. This goal was given despite the player being offside and the referee ignoring the raised linesman's flag.
Bampton were then awarded a dubious penalty which they scored to give the scoreline a very harsh look. Halwill still kept battling until the end and were rewarded when John Knight fired home a penalty. Further chances came for Halwill but another goal just wouldn't come. This though was a very spirited, battling performance from Halwill which deserved more. It was also great to see Lee Knight came on for the last 20 minutes.
Halwill's next game is another long journey awy at Amory Argyle next Saturday and with Alan Knight, John Knight, Lee Knight and Richard Wonnacott already out next week it will be another struggle to get a team. Anyone fancy a game for the 2nd's?
TEAM: Pete Holland, Mark Pilbrow, Dean Rogers, Richard Wonnacott, Thomas Coe, Mark Morgan (Sub Charlie Nicholas), Mark Wonnacott, John Knight, Jimmy Sowden (Sub Alan Knight), Shaun Knight, John Richards (Sub Lee Knight).
Halwill 2nd 0 v 2 Colyton 2nd
It was yet another frustrating day for Halwill as they hosted Colyton on a muddy Halwill pitch. After 3 weeks since their defeat to local rivals Okehampton, Halwill where keen to get a good result and climb back up the league.
Halwill seemed to be thin on players with some missing and some playing though injury. With the home team missing centre back Richard Wonnacott, Mark Wonnacott filled the gap alongside Dean Rogers. Mark 'Bob' Morgan was also missing.
Halwill started brightly as usual and it was clear to see that Johnny Knights pace was going to cause trouble for the Colyton defenders. The home team where forced to make a early substitution when Jimmy Sowden was too ill to continue and Chris Skinner came in to take his place at left midfield. Colyton attacked in numbers but the Halwill defence dealt with the attacks and found things quite comfortable.
Halfway through the first half, skipper Shaun Knight went down after clashing heads with a Colyton defender and both received 10 minutes of treatment, Shaun received a cut above his right eye but was quickly patched up and was back on the pitch. Johnny Knight had a good chance to put the home team ahead but his strike was effected by the soft pitch and caught the ground as well as the ball and the shot rolled into the keepers arms. Halwill also had chances from corners as Colyton struggled to clear the danger and there was some scrambling in the box but to no avail. Johnny Knight also saw a his freekick fly narrowly over the crossbar. Against the run of play it was Colyton who got the break through. A cross from the left was met with a hopeful header that crept into the bottom right only inches beyond goalkeeper Pete Holland who had very little to do up to that point.
At halftime Halwill knew they could get a goal back and get a result from the game. The second half continued just like the first. Colyton applied some pressure as the home defence seemed to be sitting deep but again the danger was delt with and set up more attacks for the home team. Mark Pilbrow had a great chance to equalise as he lined up to fire a shot at goal but the shot fell kindly into the arms of the goal keeper. Too many chances where being lost as Halwill struggled to get on level terms. Shaun Knight had to be replaced with Tim Down as he was feeling the affects of the head injury from the first half. Colyton where denied a second goal when Halwill keeper Pete Holland pulled off an amazing save from a freekick which was destined for the bottom corner.
Halwill had a great chance to score when right back Tom Coe saw his strong header go just wide as he out leaped his marker at the back post from a corner. Adam Bews came on in place of 'Charlie' Nicolas who was forced off with a knee injury. Halwill started to tire and give Colyton too much time an space on the ball as they attacked and they got a second goal 5 minutes from time to kill off the game. Another cross from the left and left back Jonathan Finch couldn't get a full head to to ball to clear and in dropped to a waiting Colyton striker to smash the ball home.
The game finished 2 - 0 to the away team and left Halwill frustrated again having had many goal scoring chances.
Team: Pete Holland, Jonathan FInch, Mark Wonnacott, Dean Rogers, Tom Coe, Jimmy Sowden, Mark Pilbrow, 'Charlie' Nicholas, Shaun Knight, John Richards, Johny Knight. Subs: Tim Down, Chris Skinner, Adam Bews
Okehampton Argyle 2nd 6 v 1 Halwill 2nd
It was a game of missed chances for Halwill and clinical finishing from Okehampton. With five regular players missing, Dean Rogers, Jimmy Sowden, John Richards, Mark 'Bob' Morgan and Shaun Knight, Halwill still put together a very strong side that could easily match in form Okehampton on a very sticky pitch.
Halwill started the brightest in the first 20 minutes with Craig Darby and Johnny Knight using their pace to trouble the home defence down the wings. The referee awarded a soft freekick from Liam Darts challenge. The resulting freekick opened the scoring as a powerful strike right in the bottom corner was unstoppable for goalkeeper Pete Holland. The home side quickly found themselves 2 nil up when a close shot was brilliantly blocked by Pete Holland but could do nothing about the rebound as it fell kindly to the Okehampton players feet.
Halwill did not let their heads dropped and continued to push forward in numbers. Johnny Knights quick feet inside the box forced a home defender into a clumsy challenge which the referee pointed straight to the spot for a Halwill penalty. Craig Darby stepped up to take the kick but his low strike was comfortably saved by the Okehampton goalkeeper. Exactly 10 minutes later Halwill were awarded yet another penalty for a identical challenge and this time defender Liam Dart slotted the ball low and left to make the score 2-1. A well deserved goal. Halwill's fightback was quickly made harder when Okehampton made it 3-1 from a long range drive that Halwill failed to close down. 3-1 turned to 4-1. Some good play down the left and a good cross fell to the feet of the Okehampton striker who finished well. Craig Darby had a great chance just before the whistle but the goalkeeper got low to make a good save.
At half time Halwill were wondering how a fairly even match with chances for both teams has a 4-1 score line. Halwill still felt they were in the game if they could get a early goal. Again the second half was evenly matched as a strong Halwill defence easily dealt with the through balls and played the offside game very well against the pacey Okehampton strikers. Again through a lack of closing down Halwill conceded again from a powerful long range strike and put the game out of reach for Halwill. Johnny Knight has a great chance and found himself one and one with the keeper who read Johnny Knights shot well and make a save. There was one more goal in the game for the home team as they slotted a shot under the Halwill goalie. Halwill still found the time for a number of attacks but with not end result.
The game ended 6-1 but was not as one sided as the score reads and appart from some pin point strikes from the home team, the game was fairly even. With such a strong squad of players, Halwill we bit chomping at the bit for their next game to get back to winning ways.
Team: Pete Holland, Jonathan Finch, Ben Potter, Liam Dart, Thomas Coe, Richard Wonnacott, Charlie Nicholas, Mark Wonnacott, Tony Knight, Johnny Knight, Craig Darby
Subs: Tim Down, Alan Knight, Damien French, Mark Pilbrow
Goals: Lian Dart (Pen)
Langdon 2nd 2 - 4 Halwill 2nd
Going into this game without four regular players, Jonathan Finch, Pete Holland, Shaun Knight and Richard Wonnacott, we had to re-shuffle the team. Despite this, we still had a strong side and made a positive start and took the lead on ten minutes when after good work by Jimmy Sowden and the bustling John Richards, new signing Tony Knight rifled the ball home.
With captain for the day Mark Wonnacott and twinkle toes Charlie Nicholas in control of the middle of the park we were well on top. Against the run of play the home side broke clear to equalise but we were soon back in front when Tony Knight latched on to a loose ball to score again. The lively Johnny Knight was then fouled in the box and Craig Darby playing his first game for us this season converted a twice taken penalty for 3-1 interval lead.
Langdon started the second half well but found no way past central defenders Ben Potter and Dean Rogers while full-backs Thomas Coe and Jimmy Sowden combined solid defending with overlapping, down the wings and behind them Mark 'Bob" Morgan was having a competent game in goal.
We increased our lead when player / manager Alan Knight came off the bench to score from the edge of the box (with 'Charlie' expecting a cross after good work from Johnny Knight. Tim Down also on as a sub forced the home keeper into a save late on before Langdon scored a consolation goal in injury time. All in all a well deserved 3 points.
Team: Mark (Bob) Morgan, Thomas Coe, Dean Rogers, Ben Potter, Jimmy Sowden, Tony Knight, Mark Wonnacott, 'Charlie' Nicholas, Craig Darby, Johnny Knight, John Richards. Subs: Alan Knight, Tim Down
Goals: Tony Knight 2, Craig Darby (pen), Alan Knight
Follygate 1 - 0 Halwill 2nd
After 3 wins on the bounce, Halwill travelled to local rivals Follygate in high spirits. Halwill where missing some key players but still put together a strong squad with Richard Wonnacott coming in at center back and Chris Skinners down the right wing.
Halwill started very brightly and found a way through the home defence on a number of occasions but where unlucky not to get a early goal. Follygate quickly grew frustrated as Halwill worked hard to close players down and break up and Follygate moves. As the first half went on, Follygate did see a little more of the ball and took the lead half way through the first half. A unlucky deflection on a defensive clearance fell kindly for the Follygate striker who slid the ball underneath a charging Pete Holland. Halwill kept there heads up as they knew they had been the better team.
The second half saw chances fall for both teams and a Follygate counter attack was matched by a outstanding double save from Pete Holland. As time ticked away, the last 15 mins saw all the pressure come from Halwill. Some great work down the left from Jimmy Sowden and John Richards put in form Mark Wonnacott through on goal only to see his snap shot blaze over the crossbar. As full time drew closer, late substitute Graham Dart saw a red card after some rough play and the follygate player picking up a yellow card. At full time, the equaliser did not materialise and the home team won their first game of the season.
With no game for 2 weeks, Halwill will be keen to get back on the pitch and to winning ways.
Priory 3 - 3 Halwill 2nd (Halwill won 5 - 3 on penalties)
The 2nd team won 5-3 on penalties after we had drawn 3-3 after extra-time. Marky Wonn put us 1-0 up with a fantastic strike. Priory equalised with an excellent strike and then went 2-1 up. We then had Johnny harshly sent off before Ian Barker made it 2-2 to take the match into extra-time.
After a goalless first period Priory took the lead before Marky grabbed his second goal of the game to take the game to penalties. Five perfect penalties from Oggy, Ben Potter, Marky, JR and Barks gave us the victory after Pete Holland managed to put off one of the penalty takers enough to make him miss his spot-kick. Overall, a fantastic performance from everyone, especially when we went down to ten men just after half-time and we thoroughly deserved to progress into round three.
Well done to everyone.
Goals: Mark Wonnacott 2, Ian Barker
Halwill 2nd 3 - 2 Follygate
After a moral boosting win in their previous game, Halwill knew another victory against visiting Follygate in this local derby would truly kick start their season. After a confident performance for stand in goalkeeper Pete Holland, he kept his place in goal while the regular Halwill goalkeeper Mark Morgan tried his luck up front. For a second consecutive game, Tom Ogbourne played in the heart of defence with Dean Rogers and Jon Finch pushed over to the left back role. Halwill also welcomed back Tom Coe at right back.
Halwill where the quickest out of the blocks with Mark Morgan and Jimmy Sowden out pacing the Follygate defence on a number of occasions. Some great work down the right hand side had the away defence struggling as Halwill pulled a few shots just wide. With little threat from the Follygate strikers it was no surprise that the home team took the lead. In form Mark Wonnacott whipped in a fast near post corner only to see the ball bounce in the roof of the net off a Follygate defender. A frustrated Follygate so picked themselves up and started to mount a challenge on the Halwill defence with some slick work down the left had side. They pulled level 10 minutes later when a cross from the left dropped nicely for the unmarked Follygate player who had a simple strike on goal from 6 yards. Halwill did not let their heads drop and stepped up a gear as the away team got more frustrated at their lack of shape.
Stand in striker Mark Morgan was beautifully played through by skipper Shaun Knight and as Mark headed for goal, he was brought down by a wreckless challenge right on the edge of the area. Tom Ogbourne stepped up and floated the ball to the right of goal but the Follygate keeper got fingertip to the ball to push it wide. Not long after, a great through ball from Charlie Nicholas put through Jimmy Sowden for a one on one with the Follygate keeper and a cool headed Jimmy side footed the ball into the bottom right of the goal, that was 3 goals in 3 games for the quick footed winger. The home players where getting the better of the away defenders and even John Richards had a chance on goal and rounded the keeper but was forced wide by a determined defender. Halwill pushed forward again and got their third goal courtesy of Mark Wonnacott. After skipping around 3 Follygate players he only had the goalkeeper to beat but his shot was directed into the arms of the goalkeeper who them let the ball slip out of his arms and dropped nicely at the feet of Mark Wonnacott who helped himself to a open goal.
At half time Halwill where 3-1 up, the same half time score as last week, again knowing they needed to keep their shape as Follygate would come at them in the second half. The second half started slowly as the home team tried to keep possession and not concede. As Follygate gradually started to see more of the ball, they forced the home defence further back with long balls down field. They pulled a goal back as Jon Finch could only get a slight head to a high cross from the left and the unsuspecting Follygate striker got a lucky head to the ball to make it 3-2. The away team applied more pressure as Halwill gave needless free kicks away opening the door for the ball to be pumped into the Halwill goal mouth. Halwill had one more chance in the half when manager Alan Knight rose highest to a corner for his header to rebound off the woodwork. The Home team hung on and where relived to hear the final whistle.
Halwill travel to Follygate in 2 weeks time for what is sure to be a great second game for the local rivals in quick succession.
Goals: Mark Wonnacott 2, Jimmy Sowden
Halwill 2nd 5 - 3 Langdon 2nd
With the disappointment of last week still fresh on the minds of the Halwill team, nothing but a win was needed and how well deserved it was. With some encouraging words and a full strength squad, Halwill were full of confidence and ready for kick off.
The match started well for both teams as a home attack was followed by a away attack. The game stepped up a level when Halwill winger Jimmy Sowden breezed past 4 Langdon players down the left wing only to see his cross scrambled away by a nervous away defence. A series of corners so the home team gather momentum and get on top of the game but a quick break by Landgon saw them take a shock lead. Stand in goalkeeper Pete Holland could do nothing about the quick low drive into the bottom right corner. Halwill did not drop their heads and pushed for a equaliser. Then a great ball over the top of the away defence from skipper Shaun Knight put through Jimmy Sowden who bravely headed the ball over the oncoming Langdon keeper.
The second goal soon followed with some excellent quick passing from Graham Dart, Mark Wonnacott and Ian Barker, and it was his first time shot that put Halwill into the lead. The Landon players kept driving forward but a solid defence of Dean Rogers, Tom Ogborne, Wonnie and Jon Finch kept the Langdon strikers quiet. From another corner, quick thinking from Mark Wonnacott slotted the ball in the net after a scramble in the box.
With the score 3 -1 at half time, everyone knew the next goal was vital and that goal went to Langdon. A simple through ball saw a mis timed clearance fall to the feet of the striker who cooly slotted the ball in the next to make it 3 - 2. The soon found the equaliser from a simple free kick. A cross from the left across the box fell kindly for the Langdon player who made it 3 all.
Halwill refused to let their heads drop and gathered themselves and took the game to Langdon. Johny Knight saw his free kick come off the post and the in form Langdon keeper stood strong on a number of shots from Ian Barker and Mark Wonnacott. Halwill took the lead from a similar goal to their 3rd, Mark Wonnacott found a hole in the defence from a corner to put the ball away. Halwill where then awarded a penalty and up stepped Mark Wonnacott to calmly get his hatrick. Halwill saw out the last 15 mins without any trouble for their defence.
A great result for Halwill and a kick start to their season.
GOALS: Jimmy Sowden, Ian Barker, Mark Wonnacott 3
Bradninch 8 - 1 Halwill 2nd
A day to forget for Hawill. With many players missing, it was a bad day at the office. At half time Halwill were already 6 - 0 down and although the second half saw a much improved performance, the damage was done. The only good point was a goal from winger Jimmy Sowden.
GOALS: Jimmy Sowden
Halwill 2nd 0 - 1 Met Office
Halwill where left frustrated at the final whistle when Met Office visited. Having won and drawn with them last season, Halwill thought they would get a positive result out of the game. With a number of players missing, the squad had a re-shuffle which saw Jimmy Sowden in a central midfield position, Tom Cole working the right wing and a first start of the season for right back Mike Doiche.
Halwill stared the brightest forcing a corner in the first attack of the game. Met Office came back strong with their two speedy strikers working the home defence hard as both the game and the temperature heated up. Johny Knight had the better of the Met Office defenders with his quick feet but the Met Office goalkeeper stood strong and score remained 0-0. A long clearance from a Halwill corner saw a the home defence out numbered in a quick attack and a good finish to the left of Phil Wonnacott saw the away side take the lead. The Halwill defencive trio of Pete Holland, Jon Finch and Mike Doich felt unlucky to be behind at half time as that was the only shot the away team had in the first half.
The second half brought more frustration to the home side as they dominated the play. Good shots from Tom Ogbourne, John Richards and a curling effort from Tom Coe all crept wide and time was running out for the home team. Then a dazzling run from Johny Knight took in into the only to see him brought down with a badly timed tackle, a clear penalty which to everyones amazement the referee refused to give, not the referees finest hour!!!
The game finished 1 - 0 to Met Office and Halwill felt disappointed with not getting at least a point from the game. With a good team effort and plenty of encouraging words from manager Alan Knight, Halwill look forward to their next game in search of their first win of the new season.
Halwill 2nd 0 - 5 Beacon Knights 2nd
It was a game to forget for Halwill as they hosted newly promoted Beacon Knights. The game started slowly with very little action in the first 20 minutes but a quick through ball opened up the Halwill defence and Beacon Knight made it 0 - 1. They made it 2 ten minutes later as Halwill struggled to trouble the visiting goalkeeper.
Things got worse in the second half for Halwill as the away team forced the home defence deeper and deeper. After 10 minutes of the re-start Halwill where 0 - 3 down and Beacon Knight grabbed a fourth headed in from a corner which should have actually been a Halwill goal kick, the luck was not with the home team! A delightful chip saw the 5th and final goal of the game.
Exmouth Arms 1 - 1 Halwill 2nd
It was a positive start for Halwill as they travelled to Intermediate 3 newcomers Exmouth Arms. On a day where many matches where called off, a immaculate pitch awaited Halwill.
The match started brightly with both teams having good early chances. Johny Knight and Jimmy Sowden both had great first half opportunities to open the scoring but pulled their shots just wide. The Halwill defence kept the Exmouth Arms strikers quite with only a few long range efforts that never troubled the Halwill goalkeeper.
A controversial decision from the ref should have seen the Exmouth goalkeeper sent for a early shower as he blocked a Johny Knight run on goal with his hand from outside the box. The referee produced a yellow which was a fortunate decision for the home team.
With more chances for Halwill going wide in the second half the match turned as Exmouth where given a penalty after the Halwill goalkeeper Mark Morgan apparently brought down one of the strikers. Mark Morgan got finger tips to the penalty but couldn't stop it from hitting the back of the net.
As Hawill applied more and more pressure, right back Dean Rogers saw his 20 yard screamer rebound off the post as time was ticking away for the equaliser. The Exmouth defence where holding out as a series of corners increased the pressure on the home team. Halwill finally got their reward 5 minutes from the end when a corner was cleared but some quick thinking from young Tom Coe knocked the ball back out wide for Mark Wonnacott to supply Johny Knight with a delightful cross which he smashed in the roof of the net. A much deserved goal for Halwill.
The final minute brought one last scare for Halwill as a dodgy offside decision left a one on one with the Halwill goalkeeper but Mark Morgan stood strong and saw the shot deflect off his shoulder.
A positive start to the season for Halwill 2nd's against a team who will improve game by game.
GOALS: Johny Knight
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