THE weather washed out most of the local football fixtures over the weekend.

The only match played in the Devon and Exeter Premier Division on Saturday was the Alphington v Sidmouth Town match which ended in a 3-3 draw.

The match escaped the worst of the weather and was played on the artificial pitch at Exwick Sports Hub. It was only the second game this season in which leaders Alphington have dropped points and that reduces their lead over second placed Exeter University to nine points but they have two games in hand.

There was no chance of third placed Lyme Regis 1stsplaying their home game against Crediton United. The Seasiders stay in third place on the same number of points (25) as University but they have played one more game than the students.

Lyme manager Julien Simier didn't give his squad the whole afternoon off. In a bid to keep their fitness levels up the Lyme players took advantage of the 4G facilities at Axe Valley School for an hour-long six-a-side run-out.

This coming Saturday Lyme are away to Kentisbeare, following by a home match against Kenstisbeare the following week (January 21). To maintain their challenge at the top of the Premier Division the Seasiders have to be looking for maximum points as Kentisbeare are only three games behind them with two games in hand.

Another big threat to Lyme will be Elmore who have only played five games and the Tiverton side could well overtake Lyme on points.

Dorset footballing circles were shocked to hear this week that Portland Town 1st team, who play in the Dorset. Senior League, had applied to withdraw from the 2022-23 season.

Nub News Sport understands that their Reserve team wishes to continue in Dorset League Division Four and there are rumours that the club is in talks with Crossways Spitfires in Division Three next season.