Ivybridge Town show spirit against promotion contenders

DESPITE suffering a 3-0 home defeat against Portishead Town at Erme Valley on Saturday (Sept 26), Ivybridge Town can take some encouragement from their spirited performance against one of the most impressive sides they are likely to face in the Jewson Western League, writes Graham Hambly.

Portishead took the lead with a spectacular long range shot by Mitchell Osmond in the 20th minute, but the game remained in the balance until the visitors added a second goal through Jack Thorne in the 63rd minute with Ivybridge looking for an offside decision.

Until then, Ivybridge had remained in contention and created a few decent openings which kept the Portishead defence on their toes.

Eventually Portishead wrapped up their fifth win in seven league matches with an own goal in the 82nd minute when a shot from Thorne was helped into the net by a home defender.

Ivybridge joint manager Ben Washam said: “I think the 3-0 flattered them. We were in the game for long periods, and I believe the second goal was offside. That was the changing point of the game.

“We have missed some chances. If we get one of them then it is game on, but good teams punish you.

“That’s why they are where they are in the table with the resources they have got. They have got quality all around and if you make silly mistakes they will punish you.”

Although there might have been controversy over Portishead’s crucial second goal, there could be no question over the quality of the screamer that opened the scoring.

Ivybridge coach Mitch Laughton expressed his admiration, commenting: “We said before the game that they would be a team who are difficult to break down and to make sure that the only way they are going to score against us is to have a wonder goal. Unfortunately, that is what they did.

“Our boys followed the game plan and listened to exactly what we had to say. Credit to their lad. He has hit it from about 30-35 yards out and you have got to give credit where it is due. It was a brilliant strike.”

Reflecting on the Ivybridge display, Washam added: “I am happy with the performance. There were a lot of positives to take from today. Also, we came through with no injuries. I think it is the first time all season we have come off the pitch with no injuries so that is good news as well.”

Ivybridge now have a clear week to prepare for what promises to be another tough home test next Saturday (Oct 3) with a visit from Clevedon Town, who are second in the table with eight wins from 10 league matches.

Washam admits: “It will be another difficult game, but that is why we are in this league.

“It will be nice to have a training session and regroup before we go again against another tough team. We want to challenge ourselves and push our players. We are a really young group and every game we are learning.”

Ivybridge’s reward for Wednesday’s 7-0 win over Okehampton Argyle is another home tie in the first round proper, against Cullompton Rangers, who are currently second in the East Division of the South West Peninsula League.