Despite a much improved and spirited performance, Exmouth Town slipped to their fifth consecutive home league defeat when they were beaten 3-2 by Bristol Manor Farm on Saturday, writes John Dibsdall.

Having passed the referee’s inspection, the pitch held up reasonably well with both sides adapting to the conditions and giving good entertainment value, even though the rain was almost constant, especially during the first half.

With all three new signings making their home debut (Tom Bath from the bench), Town made the perfect start when Louis Morison found Nelson Iscguan, who flashed a drive in off the post after ten minutes.

Apart from a Ben Steer effort that brought a good save, Town were then on the back foot for most of the half and were indebted to some excellent saves by Andrew Sowden-Bird and last ditch defending but a fine interplay and slick passing move saw the visitors equalise on the half-hour mark.

Exmouth made a positive start to the second half but were rocked back with a fine individual goal. To their credit, Town responded well and equalised when Iscguan turned home a Steer shot that looked to be going wide.

Back came the visitors and when Town lost possession on the edge of their penalty box, a shot into the top corner restored the lead.

Driven forward by Morison, Town pressed for another equaliser their play warranted. When Morison was brought down shouts for a penalty were turned away and then a twenty yard pile driver from Morison was superbly tipped over the bar to bring an end to a thoroughly compelling match but one that leaves Town rooted to the bottom of the table.

Town are in action at Bashley this Saturday, when they will be looking to take forward the positives from this game. With the new signings settled in and making positive contributions, manager Kevin Hill will be looking to establish a settled side playing in a formation that compliments the many attributes this side clearly possess.

Town have been drawn at home to Cullompton Rangers in the second round of the St. Lukes Bowl and the match is provisionally scheduled to be played next Wednesday November 8 but this date has yet to be confirmed.