LYME Regis 1st team finished their season with a disappointing 1-0 defeat against Lapford this afternoon (Saturday) in the play-off for the Devon and Exeter League Premier Division title.

The two teams came together because Lapford won the Premier West Division and Lyme the Premier East Division.

The play-off took place in neutral territory at Topsham and was played under strict COVID-19 regulations before a crowd of more than 200.

Lyme fielded a strong 16-man squad and dominated the opening 20 minutes but were unable to capitalise on their superiority and went in at half-time with the score at 0-0. Lyme's best chance came when a Tom Bastin shot was tipped onto the bar by the Lapford keeper.

Lapford came out with all guns blazing after the break, but the only goal of the game didn't come until mid-way in the second half. Lyme fought hard for the equaliser and had the ball kicked off the goal line but Lapford remained resolute to the end.

Whilst they will be disappointed not to have taken the Premier trophy back to the Davey Fort, Lyme can take some solace in the fact that they have played some excellent, fast-flowing football in the run-in to the end of the season, finishing on top of the Premier East Division.

With their main rivals Feniton having been admitted into the Devon League, Lyme will start as favourites to retain the Premier East title.

Next season is looking extremely positive for the Seasiders with a number of new signings lined up by manager Julien Simier and his management team.