SDFL division one

Dartmouth AFC 2

Dartmouth faced a tricky away match against Buckland Athletic thirds, who had only lost once in the league this season, but managed to walk away with a well-deserved victory.

The visitors welcomed back Mark Forrester, Freddie Smith and Dan Broadway into the starting line-up at the expense of Scott Mcroy, Alan Savage and Liam McAuley.

The squad knew this match was pivotal in terms of consolidating second place in division one, and from the whistle they looked the most likely to dictate proceedings.

Despite some good early possession, Dartmouth struggled to penetrate the Buckland defence, resulting in the home side looking a real threat on the counter-attack.

That said, the defence of Richie Baker, Jordan Frost, Lee Haywood and Ryan Frost marshalled Sam Davies in the Dartmouth goal expertly to thwart any possible goal scoring opportunities.

On 25 minutes the first real chance of the game resulted in the opening goal; a hopeful Smith cross was dropped by the home goalkeeper at the feet of Broadway, who gratefully accepted the gift to smash home from four yards.

The prolific Karl Baker then began to cause all sorts of problems with his trickery, and after a good break from Josh Webber, he must have thought he was on course to double his side's lead, only for the linesman to harshly adjudge him offside.

As the half progressed Buckland grew in confidence and a series of free kicks ensured Davies in the Dartmouth goal was kept busy, but he commanded his area well to prevent any danger from arising.

Manager Gary Lobb was pleased with his team's first-half display, but stressed the importance of scoring the next goal.

The visitors began the half well, with Liam Ford and Forrester in midfield continuing to feed wingers Webber and Smith at every opportunity.

Looking to preserve an unbeaten home record, Buckland looked to push more men forward, which suited Dartmouth perfectly as gaps began to appear in the hosts' defensive line.

Dartmouth grabbed the all-important second goal in the 70th minute when Broadway shrugged off his marker before seeing his shot fall perfectly to strike partner Baker, who followed up swiftly to tuck the ball away for 2-0.

The hosts never really threatened to get themselves back into the game, with Haywood and Jordan Frost continuing to dominate the Buckland strike force.

With only minutes left to go Mark Sneap nearly increased the winning margin further, but his effort was well-saved by the home goalkeeper at the near post.

The final whistle sounded to give Dartmouth a valuable three points from a match they were in control of throughout, ensuring spirits were high ahead of their Herald Cup semi-final against Watcombe Wanderers, which was due to take place on Wednesday evening.

This Saturday the first team are without a game, but the club wants to inform supporters the club are providing a coach to the Devon Senior Cup final on May 1.

The cost is £5 a head and will leave Longcross at 5.45pm; chairman Gary Lobb has asked for those willing to book a place on the coach to put their names down behind the bar at the clubhouse.

This week Dartmouth reserves host Harbertonford reserves at Longcross, where they will be looking to get back to winning ways after a 0-4 defeat to the hands of Roselands. Kick-off is at 2.30pm.