By Dick Sturch

Millwey Rise 2nds 2, Exmouth Rovers 3

Geary Cup Being eight minutes late for the start of the match meant I missed Exmouth's opening two goal. It was only another five minutes until their third goal went in. In between Rise striker Robbie Prior saw his powerful shot skim the visitors bar. Playing against a raging gale, Millwey found it difficult clearing their lines but at least started stringing a few passes together and beginning to look more threatening. As the half progressed so did their intent and it was again Prior who brought out a fine save from the Emouth keeper who pushed it away for a corner. The second period was a completely different affair. Although a visiting striker went close in the opening minutes Millwey, with the gale at their backs, were a constant threat to the Exmouth defence. Mark Pike saw a well struck shot pushed around the post for a corner. This was followed by a strike from Ashley Hall which again was turned around the upright for another corner. This one was more fruitful as Jack Bennett got his head to it and beat the visitor's keeper to open Millwey's reply. Hall, who was injured in the process, had to be replaced by Haydn Lewis making a welcome return after a long lay-off. Bennett then became provider when his headed through ball was netted by Pike. Rise remained on top but Exmouth had one or two dangerous breaks with one shot rattling the bar and another forcing goalkeeper Leon Finbow to make a great point blank save. Pike nearly got the equaliser but his powerful shot was tipped past the post. Millwey continued threatening the Exmouth goal but an equalise never materialised. After the initial shock of going three goals down, Rise began to realise they could match their opponents. The whole team strove to come back from the initial shock with 16 year-old Joe Osborne outstanding in mid-field and certainly deserved his manager's man-of-the-match award. Next week's visitors to Cloakham are City Raiders (kick-off 2-15pm).