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Dawlish News

Topsham can help out otters.

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31 Jan 2004 00:00

Firewatch Devon League leaders Ottery St Mary have a rare rest this weekend enabling the chasing pack to close the gap and use up one of the many games in hand they possess over Pete Gartrell's side.
Second-placed Ivybridge will be looking narrow the deficit to just two points but would normally be expected to pick up an easy three points from a visit to basement club Topsham.
However, the Tops are likely to be heavily reinforced by the inclusion of several players from Screwfix First Division high-flyers Clyst.
Topsham utilised five of their tenants' players two weeks ago, when they lost 2-1 at home Buckland, which a brought a response from skipper James Ingham-Hill who promptly demanded a transfer and has since joined Cullompton.
Ivybridge have signed Plymstock defender Ben Hatherley as cover for Ben Smith, who is having an operation that could keep him out for up to six weeks.
Third-place Holsworthy's first League game since January 3 gives the Magpies the opportunity to use up one of their nine games in hand over the Otters.
Leigh Cooper's side entertain a Plymstock side who go into the game on the back of a welcome victory over Appledore.
The mood at Newton Abbot should be a buoyant one as striker Justin Osborne receives his coveted 200 Devon League goals trophy from League president Carl Throgmorton. Heavitree are the visitors.
Crediton will fancy their chances at home to Buckland, despite their heavy cup defeat away to Holsworthy, as the Kyrton have enjoyed an unbeaten run at Lords Meadow which stretches back to September 23.
Those languishing in and around the relegation zone will be anxiously awaiting news from Monday's League Management Committee meeting where it is expected that a statement will be released announcing the applications for membership.
Cullompton, who have shown signs of improvement of late, travel to Dartmouth where the home side are finding it difficult to win.
Gary Lobb's side have not won at Longcross in their last seven League and cup games while Ray Pratt's Cully go into the game having taken seven points from their last three games.
Exeter Civil Service go to Elburton on the back of a fine 1-1 draw at Ivybridge but know that they need to convert draws into victories as five of their last seven outings have ended in stalemates.
Elburton have seven of their squad missing and wing-back Chris Menhenick agreed to join Torpoint last Thursday.
The other two sides looking over their shoulders are Newton Abbot Spurs and Alphington, who both face difficult away games at Exeter University and Vospers respectively.

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