Exmouth Town last week maintained their challenge for a top three finish, but were made to work extremely hard by teams beneath them in the league, writes John Dibsdall.

They again had to show all their fighting qualities as three times they had to come from a goal down on Saturday at Camelford, before prevailing, 4-3.

Town have always found the North Cornwall side a tough nut to crack on their own ground and have lost on their last three visits.

It was, therefore, perhaps not a great surprise when they went a goal down just minutes into the game, but Jimmy Hinds headed the equaliser after Aarron Denny had seen his effort hit the bar. With the benefit of a strong wind the hosts regained the lead and went into the break one goal ahead.

An exquisite chip from Denny brought the sides level, but after Town had had a goal disallowed they fell behind again when a penalty was awarded against them. As at St Austell, Town’s third goal came from another long-range drive from Steve Avery and they finally got their noses in front with another well-placed effort from Hinds and were able to retain their lead and gain another crucial three points.

This victory followed Town relinquishing their 100 per cent home record when they were held to a 0-0 draw last Wednesday evening by Elburton Villa.

Town had beaten the Plymouth based side twice already this season and when Karl Rickard’s drive brought an excellent save from the ’keeper another victory was anticipated.

Three clear headers from corners all failed to hit the target and as the game progressed the visitors’ confidence grew and with their fully committed and hardworking attitude they began to ask questions of their own.

Twice Martin Rice had to tip well-taken free-kicks over the bar and whilst Town will be disappointed not to have taken all three points, the much-improved display from ‘The Villa’ may well see this as a point gained come the end of the season.

This Saturday (November 24) should see Town travel to Bodmin where another tough game will await.

After a lukewarm start to the season, the Cornish side have only lost once at home and two weeks ago thrashed Tavistock 7-2!

Because of uncertainties over Bodmin’s involvement in the Cornwall Senior Cup, Town cancelled plans to take a coach to the game, but there are a number of supporters making their own travel arrangements.

All supporters are encouraged to take a toy dog of any description as Bodmin are, as far as we know, the only club out of the 53 clubs in the South West Peninsula League to have a No Dogs Allowed policy!