Exmouth Town under-14s secured a 5-0 win over Dragons Academy.
The match, part of the Junior Premier League, saw the team initially underestimate their opponents, resulting in a few early scares.
However, Niall Flavin and Freddie Connock's strong defensive play soon steadied the ship, allowing fullbacks Akein Nanayakkara and Lucas Lee to press forward.
Ollie Tuckett was rarely troubled, as George House and Harry Davie effectively transitioned the game from defence to attack.
Alfie Davis, after some clever early play, broke through on the right, delivering a cross to Leo Nehring, who scored the first goal, putting Town in control.
The Dragons, despite their efforts, couldn't break through Town's defence.
An injury to Niall Flavin in the first 20 minutes forced a change in the defensive line, with George House stepping in to maintain the lead.
Joe Barnett was instrumental in numerous attacking moves down the right, with his throws and delivery into the box proving effective.
Niko Kaszuba found space, and the link-ups between Isaac Malton and Luca Bassett improved as the game progressed.
Alfie Davis doubled Town's lead, putting them firmly in the driver's seat.
A Niko Kaszuba shot hit the crossbar, and a Harry Davie header was saved at close range.
Davis had two goals controversially ruled out for offside, but the team persevered.
Alfie Davis eventually added his second goal, and the team continued to press forward.
Harrison Kehoe, though rarely called upon, proved a valuable asset to the Town's goalkeeping department.
Will Shabytah and Akein Nanayakkara linked up well, and Will's pass, dummied by Alfie, fell to Luca Bassett, who scored the fourth goal.
Alfie Davis completed his hat-trick, making it 5-0, thanks to great off-the-ball play, with Harley Wills pivotal in these moves.
The victory, which included a clean sheet, moved Exmouth Town to second place, just one point behind leaders Taunton, but with a game in hand.
The team celebrated their all-round solid display, with the win demonstrating that no game in the league is easy if you are not fully prepared.
The team will look to carry this momentum into their next match as they aim for the top spot.
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