Saturday 20th September 2008

• Opponent: South Molton
• Fixture type: League
• Venue: Home
• Result: Won 1-0
• Scorers: Simon Adams

Match Report

The recent poor weather had delayed Buckland’s start to the season, but at long last the side had their first football to enjoy. With the sun shining, a new kit on display and several new players in the team, the lads began well in the opening exchanges. Strikers Vinny Bott and teenager Arran Brooks looked lively, together with good creative play from Simon Adams and Simon Odell in midfield. Unfortunately after only 15 minutes Simon Odell was forced to leave the field subsequent to a badly twisted knee. The injury was severe enough to require the attendance of an ambulance. Within 10 minutes of the restart Buckland edged ahead as a superb chip shot from 30yds from the foot of Simon Adams caught the visiting keeper off his line, the ball nestling brilliantly in the back of the net. The remainder of the half saw South Molton on the back foot as the home side controlled proceedings.

The second period was only minutes old when Vinny Bott forced the keeper to save well. Fellow striker Arran Brooks on his league debut for Buckland had the opportunity to double his sides tally shortly afterwards but his low shot was saved by the foot of the opposition keeper. Another injury forced Buckland to replace Simon Adams after 20 minutes with Dan Brownhill, another new recruit to Buckland’s ranks. The remainder of the half was evenly contested, but South Molton pushed hard towards the end for an equaliser. Fortunately, Buckland’s defence held firm during the latter stages for the team to record a well deserved three points.

Man of the Match: Arran Brooks (striker)