SWPL EAST Bishops Lydeard 0 Ivybridge Town 2
- Details
- Last Updated on Monday, 08 April 2024 14:28
- Published on Sunday, 07 April 2024 13:04
- Written by GRAHAM HAMBLY with Ivybridge Town
They took a fifth minute lead with a shot from Bailey Mabin and wrapped up the victory when Chris Wright scored with an excellent free kick in the 86th minute.
This was the 24th win in 28 league matches for Ivybridge, who secured the title with four games to spare.
The latest success was even more impressive as it came without key defenders Scott Pocock and Jordan Powell.
Jacob Smelt took over the captaincy in the absence of Pocock as Ivybridge re-organised their defence with Smelt joining Josh Zimmerman, returning from injury, and Curtis Legrice in a three-man rearguard.
Ivybridge joint manager Lance Bailey explained: “The decision to award the captaincy to Jacob was a reward for the hard work he has put in over the season.”
The early goal for Ivybridge came as they made a bright start, but they did not have it all their own way as Bishops Lydeard battled back into the game.
“Bishops Lydeard worked hard and showed why they have not conceded many goals at home,” said Bailey.
“Although we created some chances, things were not quite going for us until we got the second goal with a great free kick from Chris Wright.”
Ivybridge have a blank day this Saturday (April 13) but then face three home games in five days, starting with a return fixture against Bishops Lydeard on Tuesday April 16 (7.45).
Then comes a clash against Okehampton on Thursday April 18 (7.30). Ivybridge aer set to complete their home fixtures with a visit from Crediton on Saturday April 20 (3.0) when Peninsula League officials will be at Erme Valley for the presentation of the championship trophy.
The final league fixture of the season is fixtured to be away to Okehampton on Saturday April 27.
Looking at that run of fixtures, Bailey said: “We have a bit of a rest next week, but then we will look to finish the season on a strong note. We might have secured the championship, but we still have our targets. We have a winning mentality and will not look to sit on our laurels.”
Following the completion of their league programme, Ivybridge will face the West Division champions - likely to be St Austell or Liskeard - in the Champions Bowl fixture at Launceston AFC on the evening of Wednesday May 1.
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