Harrison's strike sends United into Plate final (Cullompton Tigers 0-2 Exmouth United)

On a sunny Winter's morning Exmouth United Under 12s sealed an Exeter Youth League Plate Final place with a resolute performance that saw them defeat Cullompton Tigers 2-0 away.

In a well-contested first-half the two sides sparred for possession with the boggy pitch demanding much of the players. Both teams thought they had taken the lead before the referee overruled - Exmouth brought back for a throw and Cullompton for an offside. 

Division 1 Cullompton showed their class playing some nice football but the United defensive back-line stayed strong, Harry Kifli-Reynolds and Bryn Stephens snuffing out a number of threats to their right. Going forward, United made some penetrating runs up the left wing, with Jay Leballeur and Kuba Strzalkowski terrorising the defence with their pace and skill.

United stepped up their energy after the re-start and pushed the Tigers back. The midfield - Seb Harrison, Finn Glanfield and Lewis Evans - were strong in the tackle and their combination of passing and skill began to make the difference. They got behind the Cullompton defence three times before Harrison made the breakthrough when he picked up a ball from Cayleb Field to hit a shot and then bury the rebound in the net. A few minutes later Strzalkowski out-paced the defence and struck home to make it 2-0.

Exmouth United U12s - a proud day!

The hosts continued to fight and United showed great unity to keep a clean sheet. Goaly Lewis Alford was fearless as he flung himself at the feet of oncoming strikers whilst full-backs Harry Bassett and Owen Brady refused to let the home side get the better of them. Up the other end Exmouth created more chances and Jack Greaves was unfortunate not to grab a third as his deft shot struck the post. Towards the end Exmouth shored up the defence with Tom Price and Dylan Mogford sitting in midfield and effectively shutting down any attempt by the hosts to play through the middle.

Exmouth came out worthy winners after a gritty performance in which their togetherness and hard work really made the difference. They will take a lot of confidence from this match and will look forward to the Plate final in May.

The Exmouth players wore armbands in memory of Marjolijn Harrison who recently passed away. She will be greatly missed by many in Exmouth and beyond.