It has been a year of contrasting fortunes for Exmouth Town where they started the year with hopes of reaching the promotion play offs and end the year staring relegation in the face, writes John Dibsdall.

A crowd of 477 saw Town draw 3-3 their opening game of 2023 with Willand Rovers, the visitors, equalising with virtually the last kick of the game from the penalty spot.

Whilst three defeats followed, Town then recorded their highest Southern League victory with a Jordan Harris hat-trick leading them to a 5-0 victory over Frome Town. A number of draws followed but Town did record one further victory by defeating old rivals Tavistock 1-0.

Draws with Bashley and Bideford saw them secure their place in the league, where they ended with defeats to AFC Totton and Sholing, who finished champions and runners-up respectively.

The 2023/24 season started with draws against fancied clubs Evesham and Wimborne but, apart from a draw with Westbury United, the only other points has been with a 4-1 victory at Bishops Cleeve, Town losing six of the twelve games by the odd goal and also leading in six of those games.

Fine margins in football at this level but Town did record their first ever victory in the FA Trophy. Having lost to Falmouth back in 1974, they were beaten last season at Berkhamsted but this year they beat Wimborne Town.

Having come from 3-1 down to draw 3-3 they won the penalty shoot- out, ironically converting all five of their penalties in a season where they have missed so many in the league and also at Kidlington in the Trophy, where they again were beaten by the odd goal in a 2-1 loss.

Off the pitch, the club has continued to improve their facilities with the installation of two new stands and enhancements to the beer garden with improved covered accommodation. They now meet the requirements for Southern League Football and we hope a change in fortune will see that secured for next season.

Until then, Happy New Year from Exmouth Town Football Club.