Axminster Town who were at home to Stoke Gabriel

Axminster Town put up a promising display before being beaten 2-0 by visiting Stoke Gabriel.

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Tigers boss Ray Self was proud of the way his side performed, especially after they had endured a disappointing festive period culminating in a heavy New Year’s Eve defeat at Sidmouth Town.

Self said: “There were many positive things for us to take from our display. It confirmed my feeling that we really are not far off. If we could just bring in the one or two experienced players I feel we need, then I am sure we would begin to climb the table.”

Chris Higgs made a splendid save from a 20th minute penalty to see the Tigers into the break at 0-0 against the South Devon side who arrived at Sector Lane unbeaten for ten games. With Neil Pidgeon, Jamie Manley, Paul O’Shaughnessy and Lee Griffiths forming an effective defensive unit in front of the splendid Higgs, the Tigers looked on course to bag a deserved point. The outcome of the game probably hinged on incidents at either end of the pitch around the 70 minute mark. First Joel Seward broke clear after yet another delightful pass from the busy Justin Grimshaw and thumped a shot against the upright. A minute later, at the other end of the pitch, Adam Cowling was harshly adjudged to have barged into an attacker and Higgs was beaten from the resultant penalty. Ten minutes later the visitors added a second to seal victory.”

Self said: “A two goal margin flatters them (Stoke Gabriel). We played well enough to take something from the game and I am very proud of the way the team performed both indivisibly and collectively.”

The Tigers begin a testing run of fixtures starting with Saturday’s visit of joint leaders Exmouth Town. Self says: “The games look as tough as you can get but that may just play in our favour as I am sure opposition sides will fancy their chances. Hopefully we can pull a surprise or two.”