Axmouth United 2, Bampton 1 United retained top spot in Fresha League Division Four after a tough encounter with a strong visiting side.

In a powerful start United took an early lead when a Matt Ellis cross was volleyed home George Harwood for his first league goal in senior football.

Bampton replied and were denied a leveller by a smart Bradley Cross save. In a first half of few chances it looked like Axmouth would take their slender advantage into the break until Jamie Hughes fed stand-in striker Jake Dack who struck a fierce shot from outside the box with what proved to be the last kick of the half!

After the break Bampton came out strongly, though they were kept at distance fro the Cross goal by some good defending. However, they did eventually halve the deficit via the penalty spot on 60 minutes. The hosts came back strongly and were denied a third a number of times by the agility of the visiting keeper! United closed the game out well to bank three more points.

Boss Laurie Forino said: “I must admit to being relieved to hear the final whistle. These close games are not good for the nerves, but yet again the lads have shown great spirit and determination. We have made a good start to the season, but its very early yet and next we face a real test with University visiting having won all five of their games so far. I am hoping we continue to give good value to the home faithful who have been supporting us in great numbers so far this season.”