While the first eleven sat out yet another frustrating open date, Millwey Rise Reserves secured a valuable point in their fight to haul themselves from the foot of the Division Three table, writes Dick Sturch.

In a contest of end-to-end football, played at a frenetic pace, first half chances went begging at either end of the field. Eventually, Dowlish and Donyatt got the break to go one up a few minutes before half-time from an untimely lapse by the home side’s defence.

The second half continued where the first had finished. The pace of the game never relaxed. For Millwey Wayne Jenkins and Zak Meaker were outstanding. Meaker covered every inch of the pitch, both in defence and midfield, spurring the home side on for an equaliser. After several good chances Millwey eventually put the ball in the visitors net only for the referee to whistle for offside. This appeared an unusual decision as the ball had come back off the goalkeeper before it was driven into the net. Members on the Tea Hut terrace were very vociferous in their disapproval, but this changed to cheers just a few minutes later when the referee blew for a penalty in Millwey`s favour and Tristan Wakely duly dispatched it into the net.

This was a very good all round performance by Millwey reserves and if they can keep the momentum going could well take them out of the relegation zone.

Next Saturday Winsham are the visitors to Cloakham Lawns for a welcome Division One game against Millwey Rise (2.30pm) whilst it is the Reserve’s turn to sit out a match day.