KINGSLEY LEAGUE HUTCHINGS CUP FINAL AT BIDEFORD AFC

Bude Town Reserves 2 South Molton 0

BUDE Town Reserves rounded off their perfect weekend by seeing off North Devon League Intermediate One leaders South Molton to retain the Hutchings Cup at Bideford on Sunday.

The Seasiders narrowly beat Southgate Seniors in the final 12 months ago, but enjoyed a much smoother ride at the Sports Ground to make it a double celebration after Steve Hackett’s men won the St Piran League Division Three East title at Looe Town Reserves on Saturday afternoon.

Bude were playing their third game of the week, but with a healthy sized squad were able to switch things around in the build-up to ensure as many fresh legs as possible.

And with the joy of ensuring Lanreath would be unable to catch them after it was revealed that Bodmin Dragons were unable to bring a side tonight (Wednesday, May 1), they played with freedom from the outset.

They maintained possession, moving the ball from side to side making the pitch nice and big and tested the South Molton resilience with some slick, attacking moves. 

And their patience was rewarded when striker Jago Tweitman found himself in space and he struck home with his weaker right foot.

Despite South Molton coming back into it somehwat, it was 1-0 at the break.

Into the second half, and Bude continued with their attacking focus and chipped away at the opposition - the midfield of Aled Thomas and Harrison Swatton winning their duals with the influential Steve Box getting them playing with his close control and range of passing. 

A second would give South Molton a mountain to climb and it arrived when in-form striker George Harvey headed home from close range.

From there on, South Molton were limited to scraps and Bude saw the game out convincingly to the delight of the lads, coaching staff and travelling support. 

Reflecting on the game, player/manager Steve Hackett said: “The scenes at the final whistle were a joy to behold with the lads lifting the trophy again after winning it last year, players' children joining in the photographs, blue flares, champagne and friends and family joining in the celebrations.

“Man of the match was Steve Box who again, pulled all the strings, worked hard and was at the forefront of all our forward play. 

“This has truly been a weekend to remember for everyone associated with the reserve team this season, each and every player has contributed to these great performances and made it possible to lift these trophies. They have been phenomenal this campaign with their effort levels, willingness, commitment and drive to invest in the project, improve, stick to the project, play for the badge and do the club proud. 

“Thank you so much to the lads, the coaching staff, the committee, groundsman, bar staff, supporters, friends, family, kit washers, sponsors and everyone else - this is for you!

“The lads can now rest up, enjoy their success and we are having an exhibition match on Wednesday night (6.30pm) where we want to see every single person who has supported us this season.

“We have the St Piran League representatives at the Broadclose to award us with the league trophy and we want you all there to share the moment with us.

“Thanks again, it has been an amazing ride!”

BUDE TOWN: Jenson Goatcher; Jordan Mason, James Wheeler, Lloyd Scaife, Fin Reeve; Steve Box (capt), Aled Thomas, Harrison Swatton; Jago Tweitman, George Harvey, Ruan Tape. Subs: Ewan Reeves, Charlie Larwood, Alfie Rowland, Louie Steege, Jake Salt.

Bude Town Reserves man of the match: Steve Box.