Exmouth Town’s indifferent run of form in 2023 continued last Saturday with a 1-0 home defeat by Hamworthy United.

Town have now only won once this year with five draws and six defeats in the 12 matches played. The latest offering saw defences well on top with goalmouth action at a premium and, apart from a couple of dead-ball situations, the high-scoring visitors only created one chance in open play.

The opening 20 minutes was scrappy with an Aarron Denny half volley that flew over the crossbar the only play of note.

A free-kick from the visitors struck the post before Jordan Harris was denied by a sprawling save, the only real action either ‘keeper was involved in.

The second half continued in a similar vein until the hour, when a mix-up in midfield led to a break down Town’s left and a pin point cross was met by a firm close-range header that Robbie Powell did well to save. Unfortunately, the ball fell kindly to the attacker who hammered the loose ball into the roof of the net.

The visitors were reduced to ten men (two yellow cards) but Town failed to be creative enough to make the extra player count.

A Ben Steer cross was met by a firm header from High that brought an outstanding save and Mike Landricombe saw his header go narrowly wide but Town were left with nothing to show for their efforts, whilst the visitors travelled home with all three points to cement their third place in the league.

This Saturday, Exmouth are home again with Lymington Town the visitors. When the sides met in October, goals from Levi Landricombe and Mark Lever gave Town a 2-0 victory that left Lymington languishing at the wrong end of the table.

They are now one of the in-form sides with four wins and four draws in their last eight games and will pose another tough test as Town look to return to winning ways and ensure that they will be playing Southern League football next season.

Off the pitch, work has continued to complete the necessary ground improvements required for Town to meet the grading requirements for Step Four football and Town supporters should soon see two new stands erected to provide additional seating and covered standing accommodation.