Axminster Town started their series of friendlies before the start of the season in South West Peninsular Premier East at Tiger Way last night (Tuesday), losing 2-0 to Southern League outfit Tiverton Town.

After finishing in sixth place in Premier East last season, their highest place ever, manager Dan Prettejohn will be looking to improve on that performance, particular if his side can improve on the number of games drawn (12 in all) last season.

Prettejohn was also able to introduce two new signings to the Tiger Way crowd - Ben Palmer and Craig Veal, former Taunton Town players, who both had impressive games. They were watched by a crowd of just over 80, a satisfactory number concerning the inclement weather.

Prettejohn told Nub News after the game: "It was a great first run-out for the lads against a Southern League side with countless new signings on display.

"As expected , they dominated the ball due to the low block and narrow shape we kept ever so well . For all their possession it wasn't like we were battered . Chances created by us were few but to be disappointed in conceding the second with last kick of game shows how well we did. It's going to be a very testing pre-season which can only help the start of our South West Premier League campaign.

The Tigers' next friendly is on Tuesday, July 5 at home to Exmouth Town.