Seaton Town began their Macron Devon and Exeter League campaign with a splendid 2-2 draw against an Exwick Villa that last season played their football in the South West Peninsula Eastern Division.

However, post match it was a little ‘sweet/bitter’ for new Seaton boss Brendon Willey who explained his feeling, saying: “We led 2-1 with a couple of minutes to play and, when you are in that position at home you like to think you can see the game out.

“However, they [Villa], were piling on the pressure over the last 10 minutes and probably deserved something for their efforts. Had you asked me before the game if I’d take a point, I’d have snapped your hand off! So I cannot grumble too much as it was a very positive performance across the pitch from the team, and, if we can repeat that show on a consistent basis then we will be OK in the long season ahead.”

Max Richardson scored the goal that saw Town into the break all square and they took a second half lead with a stunning strike from Josh French.

Tony Cox got away down the flank and, when his cross was punched away by the Exwick goalkeeper, it landed at the feet of French, some 40-yards from goal. With a touch to settle himself, French then unleashed a superb strike that hit the post and flew into the net.

The Town boss said: “It was a great strike and the only shame is that such a hit did not prove to be the goal that won us three points.”

One player in particular came in for high praise from the Town boss, who explained saying: “Will House was superb from first whistle to last. At 16, he has plenty to learn, but his shift was one of maturity. He’s smashing lad with the right attitude and, based on how he performed, he looks to have nailed the right back berth in the team.”

With regular goalkeeper Dave Perham unavailable, Town fielded former Sidbury United glovesman Jamie Harvey between the posts and he did well.

Willey said: “Jamie [Harvey] is a class goalkeeper who ha shad his fair share of injury woes. He is the number two to Dave [Perham], but he has to be one of the best number twos in the league so, when Dave is not available, Jamie will play, that’s a given.”

Seaton are back in action on Saturday (August 26) with a home game against Newton St Cyres. Admission is just £2 and supporters will be made very welcome.