In Devon and Exeter Division 2, Beer 2nds and Exeter University 4th’s shared the spoils, drawing 2-2 at the Furzebrake on Saturday writes Dan Jeeves. It was Uni who started the brightest, controlling possession and injecting plenty of energy and pace all over the pitch. Whilst they continued to press and test Beer’s defensive line, the back 3 of Fraser Beamont, Kieron Love and Ashley Driver held firm, putting their bodies on the line to deny University and clear cut opportunities. Beer appeared to steady the ship but then conceded just before the break. A pull on the shirt from Reece Hales resulted in a penalty to University which was despatched despite young keeper Leo Gribble getting a hand to the ball.
Beer changed shape for the second half with Max Richardson coming on for Fraser Beament and the team reverting to a 4-3-3 and started on the front foot. Jay Catley came close to scoring but hit the post after losing his footing in the area. Unfortunately though University grabbed a second against the run of play when a corner was headed home by their centre forward. The Fishermen reduced the arrears soon after when some good play down the left resulted in James Hill tapping home after Jack Prior had hit the crossbar. The equaliser followed as Beer continued to press. A long ball was inadvertently headed home by the University centre back to make the scores 2-2. Beer went all out for the winning goal and James Melville came close to sealing the game after cutting in on his right foot but the keeper got down to make a good save. Taylor Russell also went on a good run but just couldn’t find the finish to match it. In the end Beer had to settle for 2-2 in a thrilling contest against very good opponents.