By Dick Sturch

Millwey Rise 1st X1 3 - University of Exeter 7th X1 3

A great start by Millwey saw them force a corner whipped in by Matt Lewis and met by Ty Allen for an early opening goal.

University increased their tempo and forced a corner from which they went close to equalising. The play flowed from end to end but it was Rise who came close when some clever inter-play saw a Sam Dibling effort go just wide.

With pressure mounting, Millwey won a free kick on the edge of the box. This was whipped in low by Nathan Womersley and Dibling converted it with a clever flick for a 2-0 lead. Rise continued creating chances but were unable to find the finish required.

The visitors then posted their intent only to see the ball hit the cross bar. A great through ball by Dibling failed to produce the opportunity it provided. This gave encouragement to the University who began to find holes in the Rise midfield and were rewarded when they broke away and scored just on half time.

The second period saw Ben Webb replaced by Luke Thurlow and the visitors playing with more belief in their ability. Thurlow made a quick impression on the game when he broke clear but his shot was just wide of the post. This was quickly followed by a Dibling header that scraped over the bar.

More missed chances followed which were punished when University drew level and quickly added a third to move in front. Joe Osborne came on for Bailey Hall as Rise pushed to get back in the game. The equaliser came rather luckily when a ball over the top was fumbled by the keeper allowing Dave Bridges to tap it in.

At 3-3 there was all to play for and the luck was with Rise as another shot clattered off their crossbar. Then Thurlow had the opportunity to get the winner but was unable to beat the keeper. Jack Bennett replaced Bridges and shortly after Rise won a free kick on the edge of the area. The resultant kick hit the wall and a follow up shot was straight into the keeper's hands. A Millwey corner saw another missed opportunity as a free header sailed over the crossbar.

Defenders at both ends were under pressure as each side created chances going for the winner. The game remained on a knife edge and finished honours even but the feeling at Millwey was of dropped points.

Flynn Smith had a great game in goal for 'Rise' and but for his timely interceptions the result could have been far worse.