Colaton Raleigh action against Budleigh Salterton

Tedburn St Mary 3, Colaton Raleigh 4

Colaton Raleigh’s celebrations ran late into Easter Saturday night as the villagers’ clinched promotion to the third tier of Fresha League football with a deserved success.

With holidays and work commitments player-boss Riki Pitter was forced to make four changes for the game with a home side that were desperate for the points to climb away from the Division Three drop zone.

Raleigh were under-par in a first half that saw them troop into the break trailing by the odd goal in five with Pitter and Mark Pavey their scorers.

It was not until the 80th minute that the scores were levelled when a Matt Tett corner kick was headed back across goal by Pitter for 17-year-old Ricki Harris to arrive and power a header into the roof of the net.

Then, in the final minute, a long clearance from keeper Adrian Parr found Gary Dixon out wide on the left. Dixon looked up, saw the Tedburn keeper a yard off his line, and sent a stunning inch-perfect chip into the net.

Not only was it a promotion clinching goal, but it is also a very serious contender for the villagers’ goal of the season!

Delighted Manager Pitter, was quick to thank his assistant Cliff Cooper for his support throughout the season and he heaped praise on his young side saying: “Cliff’s contribution has been immeasurable and as for the young squad, the majority are under the age of 21 and they have all matured so much in the campaign. Each has made a big contribution at some stage. That’s been the key this season. When we have needed big performances we have been able to get them, be it from individuals or as a collective. What’s clear is that, as these players gain experience, they will only get better.

To complete an excellent weekend, Colaton Raleigh Reserves gained a sparkling 3-1 win at Cheriton Fitzpaine, with Matt Rasmussen (2) and James Santer on the score sheet.

Youngsters Blake Blackwood, Jamie Vittles and Mike Feeney were all outstanding.