By Dick Sturch

Millwey Rise 1stX1 0, Starcross Dons 1st X1 5

Millwey Rise 1st XI were without first choice keeper Brett Garner who had suffered a foot injury so young outfield player, Theo Souttar-Stone, came to manager Shane Featherstone's aid and put the gloves on.

Rise also had to change to their away colours as the referee was not happy when Starcross Dons turned up in an all purple kit despite knowing Millwey played in blue from the previous week's reverse fixture.

The visitors started the game with purpose and went ahead with a curling shot after just two minutes. From that moment Starcross were very much on top and at times Millwey were left chasing shadows. They created several one on one chances but Rise stand in keeper thwarted their efforts. Striker Luke Thurlow broke through the Don's defence on several occasions but failed to get the result his efforts deserved. Then just before half time the visitors added a further goal with an easy tap in.

After the break Ben Webb replaced defender Bailey Hall but again the Dons came out as they started the first half taking control of the game. Thurlow was replaced 15 minutes into the half by Nathan Womersley who has been on the sidelines for the last 12 weeks through injury. Manager Featherstone then replaced Sam Turner and Chris Pritchard came on for Owen Enticott but Starcross remained dominant scoring another three goals to finish the game 5-0 winners.

One bit of encouragement for Millwey was their man-of-the-match defender Leigh Beer who has been impressive since coming back after breaking his leg in a game against Axminster in 2020.