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Devizes Town 2, Chard Town 4

From the Chard & Ilminster News, first published Monday 10th Mar 2008.

Toolstation League Premier Division

CHARD set the seal on a magnificent win with a first minute goal against ninth placed Devizes on Saturday. Man of the match Andy Whitefield scored two goals and with a spirited display, more than confirmed his potential at this level and faith in him by manager Stuart Parris.

The first goal came in the first minute after Craig Rice released Alexis Piper up the right flank and his cross was headed home for Whitefield's first goal for Chard. There was a hold up as Referee Bird had to retire due to a pulled calf muscle. Devizes failed to take advantage of several set pieces including corners awarded during this first period.

The strong wind in the second half found the Devizes attack endeavour to break through with long kicks deep into the Chard half. However, on 75 minutes, following a foul on James Clough, a perfectly floated free kick by Ed Barney found Owen Irish in position to power home a header for Chard's second. Minutes later Devizes reduced the arrears with their first goal.

Chard were soon back in command increasing the lead by two goals. Excellent play by Piper held off the home defence before releasing the ball to Whitefield who made no mistake in scoring his second goal on 81 minutes.

Devizes came back with a further goal from a powerful strike from outside the penalty area gave Chard keeper Lloyd Irish no chance. The game was put beyond doubt when Whitefield outpaced the home defence and crossed the ball for Piper to put 2-4 up.

This settled side have given the Chard team more confidence with two hard games - a rearranged fixture tomorrow night (Tuesday) against Bideford, 7.45pm kick off, and on Saturday (March 15) they travel to North Devon for an away fixture against Barnstaple Town, kick off 3pm.

Team: Lloyd Irish, Matt Corrick, George Chlopecki, Leigh Bailey, Owen Irish, James Clough, Jonathan Hurford, Craig Rice, Alexis Piper, Andrew Whitefield, Ed Barney. Subs: Danny Cleal (for Rice, 80 mins), Stuart Parris (unused).

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