16/04/2026
✨TEAM SPOTLIGHT✨
In their penultimate clash of a topsy-turvy season, North Devon Men’s 2s travelled to Exeter for what would be a real test of mettle and moxie against Isca 6s. Working hard as a unit, and with just two substitutes, they conjured their first draw of the campaign.
The first half began with a bang for North, with Luke Brunton finding space in the D at the 4-minute mark and dispatching with aplomb to catch the home side off guard and give the visitors a vital early lead. The hosts, however, responded well, taking advantage of gaps in between North’s 4-3-3 formation and enjoying the lion’s share of the ball.
Despite their own frustrations, colourful language (unnoticed by the umpires, among other infractions) and silly mistakes proving detrimental to their cause, they ultimately broke through to level the affair when a piercing ball from the byline was met in the middle of the D by Isca’s awaiting striker. They would remain in the ascendancy until the half-time whistle, which North gladly welcomed.
The second half was a much more balanced affair, with North sporting a compact structure across the park and producing some excellent defensive work, particularly MOTM Sam Sampson. With North’s attackers dropping back to support the midfielders, their forward press seemed more cohesive. Exploiting space down either flank, North rallied to restore their lead. In a fine counterattack, they did just that: Ethan Jones collected the ball in the middle of the pitch and found Will Simpson on the right-hand side, who played the perfect ball across goal to Craig Carruthers to slot home at the far post for North’s second.
Despite this, Isca would respond strongly once more, upping the pressure going forward and threatening another equaliser. They achieved parity six minutes from time and set up a nervy finish for the visitors. Alas, thanks to some remarkable tenacity through the middle, the visitors held on for a point.
All things considered, a fine point against seasoned opposition, all but guaranteeing a stronger finish than last year in a tough league.
