26.03.11 - Bradworthy 0 Boca Seniors 3

Bradworthy. Scene of the demise of Boca Seniors title hopes of 2010. Many a side have visited the Playing Field at Bradworthy and left with nothing but bumps and bruises.

Boca put eight unanswered goals past the team currently propping up the other fourteen teams in the North Devon Premier League earlier this season, but fresh off the back of a fantastic Brayford Cup semi-final win against North Molton last week all signs indicated that today's match would provide a much sterner test. And so it did.

Clearly belying their lowly position Bradworthy pushed Boca all the way in a good game, cheered on by their usual enthusiastic support.

Both sides cancelled each other out in the early exchanges with neither side really carving out a clear chance. In fact, it was a touch of good fortune which gave Boca the lead after twenty minutes. Mark Barrow's well delivered free kick was put into the danger area and due to some hesitant defending and attacking somehow made it's way through the crowded box and into the net.

They doubled their lead soon after. Richie Joslin's deep cross was headed back across goal and top scorer Scott Sharp nodded in at the back post.

The points were sealed on the hour mark by Kurt Bayliss who finished nicely on the half volley. Bradworthy never gave in and carved out one or two minor chances which were well dealt with by the Boca backline.

One thing's for sure, when the teams meet once more in the Brayford Cup Final on May 7th it's sure to be a full-blooded affair where an improving Bradworthy will be cheered on by a strong and vocal support.

Man-of-the-match: Simon Ovey - vocal and determined from the first minute until the last.

Lineup: Babb, Thorne, L.Ovey, S.Ovey, Bayliss, Joslin, Barrow, Deakin, Stephens, Sharp, Marsh; Subs: Paton

19.03.11 - Boca Seniors 3 Braunton 3 (Boca won 4-3 on penalties)

Match report to follow...

Man-of-the-match: Taro Bishop

Lineup: Babb, Bishop, Bayliss, S.Ovey, L.Ovey, Jenkins, Barrow, Stephens, Joslin, Deakin, Sharp; Subs: Crush, Marsh, Thorne

15.03.11 - Boca Seniors 3 Torrington 2

Match report to follow...

Man-of-the-match: Taro Bishop

Lineup: Babb, Bayliss, Bishop, Thorne, Paton, Deakin, Jenkins, Stephens, Barrow, Crush, Marsh; Subs: Sharp, Joslin, L.Ovey, S.Ovey

12.03.11 - Boca Seniors 6 Appledore 0

After victories against North Molton and Torrington, week two of the season defining group of matches pitted Appledore up against Boca, stats wise, the closest team to Darren Todd's men. The significance of this tie could not be understated before the match: win, and put some significant distance between the two sides; lose, and the title race gets blown wide open once more.

Both sides went into the game with men missing. The downside of being a reserve team is that your first team will take some of your players from time to time when needed. Boca too could only call upon 13 men for the match including the late and welcome addition of Jake Crush. Injuries and inavailability has tested Boca's small squad to the full in recent weeks but they hope to welcome back the missing Richard Shannon, Richie Joslin, Mark Thorne, James Davey for next week's crunch cup tie against Braunton. But back to this week's crucial match.

Boca started with the same team that beat Torrington earlier in the week playing with the same 4-4-2 formation that has served them well in most of the big games this season. The switch from the usual 3-5-2 has provided a more solid unit.

The game began brightly for Boca and they set the pattern from the outset, attacking at every opportunity, with Matt Deakin enjoying some good possession. Any Appledore foray forward was snuffed out by the Boca back four, superbly marshalled by the Ovey cousins, backed up once more by the impressive pair of Taro Bishop and Kurt Bayliss.

Tom Marsh pout in the usual hardworking performance and his efforts were rewarded after twenty minutes when he was brought down in the box to give the hosts a clear penalty. Step up Mark Barrow. Inexplicably he was unable to convert as the impressive Appledore keeper kept him at bay.

Boca were guilty of squandering some gilt edged chances as they dominated proceedings, leaving the bench wondering if this was going to be 'one of those days'. Good chances came and went and went the whistle blew for half time Boca wondered how they weren't in the lead.

The half time message was not to panic and keep playing the same way with an emphasis on converting the chances. With a minute gone Barrow was frustrated once more by the keeper but this time the save was even more impressive as he turned a goal bound effort round the post.

When the opening goal came, it was worth the wait. Scott Sharp claimed a hat trick in mid week but was unhappy that he failed to convert more chances. The first half of this match seemed to be going the same way. That was until he unleashed an unstoppable volley from an acute angle into the top corner of the goal. Two keepers would have been unable to stop it and had it not been for the net, the ball would have ended up in the deli counter in the new Tesco store.

That goal appeared to relax Boca in front of goal and they pressed forward in search or more. The second came from a very unlikely source. Normally in charge of keeping them out at the other end Simon Ovey powered a bullet header home from a corner to bag his first of the season.

The only thing which was missing from the first half was now coming in droves and Boca added a third through Matt Deakin. As Appledore heads dropped substitute Jake Crush got in on the act to put the game beyond reach.

Sharp and Deakin claimed a second each as Boca finally got what their dominance deserved. A huge three points to cement their place at the top, a position that they don't intend giving up again this season.

Man-of-the-match: Taro Bishop - probably been Boca's most consistent player in the last month and 'Bish' put in a performance that he's now reknowned for.

Lineup: Babb, Bishop, Bayliss, S.Ovey, L.Ovey, Barrow, Deakin, Stephens, Jenkins, Sharp, Marsh; Subs: Paton, Crush

08.03.11 - Torrington 3 Boca Seniors 8

Match report to follow...

Man-of-the-match: Simon Ovey

Babb, L.Ovey, S.Ovey, Bishop, Bayliss, Jenkins, Deakin, Barrow, Stephens, Marsh, Sharp; Subs: Crush, Thorne

05.03.11 - North Molton 1 Boca Seniors 2

The next three weeks will determine the success or failure of Boca's 2010/11 campaign with cup semi-finals against Braunton and North Molton and crucial league fixtures against closest challengers Appledore and North Molton. First up today, away to the Stags of North Molton.

With last week's disappointing defeat at the hands of Hatherleigh still fresh in the minds, the Boss demanded a positive reaction in the biggest league match of the season so far. The visiting side were able to welcome back Scott Sharp, Matt Deakin and Tom Marsh who were absent in that loss but lost James Davey to injury before kick-off.

It was clear from the opening minutes of the match that it was going to be a tight, competitive affair. Both teams carved openings at the back but neither was able to convert, Scott Sharp went closest to opening the scoring for Boca.

The deadlock was broken with ten minutes of the first half remaining and it was the hosts who capitalised on an error in the Boca defence. Darren Babb was given no chance of stopping a great strike into the top left corner from twenty yards.

Boca regrouped at half time and came out much more positively but Molton were proving to be dangerous on the break as Boca committed men forward looking for the equaliser. The Stags defended resolutely and made several telling blocks, throwing themselves in the way of the ball on a number of occasions. Unfortunately for them, that enthusiasm to prevent the ball travelling towards goal cost them as they conceded a penalty for hand ball. Mark Barrow converted as per usual to bring Boca deservedly back level.

More injury woe for Boca came shortly after as they lost Mark Thorne who looks likely to spend a few weeks next to Ross Maynard and James Davey on the treatment table.

The equaliser siganalled a change in the game tactically as both sides went looking for a winner. Molton almost got it but were denied by the brilliance of Babb who powerfully parried the ball to safety.

Matt Deakin went close at the other end but he could only shoot straight at the Molton keeper. Looking to secure all three points the Boss introduced Kurt Bayliss into the fray to inject some pace into the proceedings. That substitution was proven to be a masterstroke with seconds remaining. Seeing Bayliss free on the wing Babb threw the ball Schmeichel-esque to his feet and the little man ran unchallenged down the right and unleashed a shot into the far corner of the next. Cue wild celebrations on the Boca bench and on the field.

A massive three points for Boca and a crushing defeat for North Molton who played their part in a compelling and competitive match played out in a good spirit. In fairness to the Stags the result could have gone either way and a draw may have been the fair result. But take nothing away from Boca, it's results like this that win you league titles, but they also know that there is a very long way to go yet, with over half of the league fixtures still to play with only 12 weeks of the season remaining. The fragile Boca squad will be tested to the full in the coming weeks and Darren Todd may even look to bring in a few new faces as cover.

North Molton will get their opportunity to exact some revenge when the teams meet once more next Sunday in the Westward Ho! Cup semi-final. And there's the small matter of the return fixture later in the season.

Man-of-the-match: Darren Babb - positive decisions, good handling, a key save and a hand in the winner. A good day for the big guy.

Lineup: Babb, L.Ovey, S.Ovey, Thorne, Bishop, Deakin, Stephens, Barrow, Jenkins, Joslin, Sharp; Subs: Marsh, Paton, Bayliss

27.02.11 - Hatherleigh 5 Boca Seniors 4

The players of Boca Seniors will not have the honour of greeting Torrington's Mayor this year as they were unceremoniously dumped out of the Torridge Cup at the quarter final stage by Hatherleigh in a topsy-turvy match at the home of the Devon & Exeter side.

Darren Todd could only call upon twelve men, including the injured Simon Ovey, something which has plagued Boca for a few weeks now. Added to the fact that several of those who were available were a little worse for wear from the previous evening's festivities, the omens didn't look good.

Those omens appeared to come true in a horrible first half for the visitors, who struggled to get going and find any kind of rhythm. Their more determined opponents were first to nearly every first and second ball and deservedly took a two nil lead thanks to some poor Boca defending, all over the pitch. Boca were restricted to half chances from set pieces and the odd counter attack. Despite having played the previous day and Boca had not, it was Hatherleigh who looked fresher and hungrier.

It was clear that if Boca were going to salvage anything from this game they were going to have to do it the hard way and a justifiable rocket from the Boss ensured that a very different side took to the field in the second half.

Jack Jenkins gave them hope with a fortunate free kick which looped over the Hatherleigh keeper's head from 45 yards. But a lack of concentration which would form the pattern of the match haunted the away team as they conceded once more, almost immediately from the kick-off.

Boca reduced the deficit soon after thanks to a Mark Barrow penalty, and he levelled matters right away with his second of the match. Boca were in the ascendency and when Barrow's 20 yard free kick cannoned off the cross bar it fell to the feet of Rob Paton, who with five minutes to go tapped in to score what looked to be the decider. In all honesty it should have been as most of the Hatherleigh side looked to have dropped their heads but poor Boca defending once more allowed their opponents in to grab a late equaliser. With seconds remaining and extra time looming Boca completely capitulated and allowed Hatherleigh to break and win a clear penalty which they duly despatched to secure the path into the semi-final.

To make matters worse, Rob Paton was given his marching orders to cap a terrible day for Boca.

When the whistle blew, Hatherleigh's famous victory was somewhat soured by some 'over zealous' celebrations from a few of the local village idiots which was disappointing as it ruined what was a fair and competitive match. But in fairness, Hatherleigh got what they fully deserved for their efforts and player availability will not be used as an excuse in what was Boca's worst display of the season.

So which Boca will turn up against North Molton this Saturday? Will they be able to call upon a full squad once more? And will this defeat affect confidence? It's the biggest league match of the season so far, against a North Molton side who like nothing better than to get one over on Boca. They'll be up for it. The question is, will Boca? After this display questions must be asked. Let's wait and see...

Man-of-the-match: Taro Bishop - the only player to come out of the game with any real credit. Worked hard in midfield.

Lineup: Babb, Thorne, L.Ovey, Paton, Bayliss, Joslin, Barrow, Jenkins, Bishop, Stephens, Davey; Subs: S.Ovey

19.02.11 - Boca Seniors 5 Georgeham & Croyde 3

With the second switch of grounds in as many weeks you'd think that Boca were deliberately trying to make it harder for themselves. Games at Georgeham's ground are always really difficult and today's match was no exception. But after twenty five minutes it looked very much as though the visitors were going to run riot much like the Brayford Cup match in October as they blitzed into a three nil lead.

Scott Sharp opened proceedings, tapping in from close range and Matt Deakin made it two minutes later. A dazed Hammers side quickly settled and began to press the game, disrupting Boca from their slick football which brought the first two goals. On the half hour mark Georgeham created their first clear chance but could only strike the post with Darren Babb beaten. Babb would deny them soon after with a superb low save, palming the ball out for a corner.

Georgeham's failure to convert those chances was punished on the break. Tom Marsh held the ball up and whilst taking a hit fed strike partner Sharp who dropped his shoulder and left his marker in his wake, finally slotting home. He could have claimed a famous hat-trick almost immediately but he could only head over from close range. Arguably the easiest of his chances.

But then, just as Boca were cruising, the game was turned on it's head, partly thanks to some Boca complacency but mainly due to a dogged Georgeham side refusing to throw the towel in. Springing the offside trap on two occasions they pegged one, then two goals back before the break, giving them renewed confidence going into the second half.

A very frustrated Boca entered the changing room wondering how the contest had become much closer than it ought to have been. But after a stern talking to and regroup they began the second half much as they started the first, except for the goals. That was, until Tom Marsh got his head onto a pinpoint Matt Deakin cross at the backpost to sneak the ball in the restore a two goal cushion.

In fairness, any Boca complacency was stamped out and they shaded second half possession, restricting Georgeham to limited half chances. The three points were effectively made safe when the ever-impressive Deakin was adjudged to have been brought down in the box and Mark Barrow converted the resulting penalty.

Still Georgeham refused to give in and they claimed a late consolation with two minutes remaining. And with that win Boca reach the top of the league for the first time in several weeks. To stay there, they know that they'll have to up their performance levels in the crucial months ahead.

Man-of-the-match: Kurt Bayliss - added to last week's great display against Shamwickshire with an even better one at right back. A mention too for fellow full back Taro Bishop who also put in a very determined performance.

Lineup: Babb, Bishop, Bayliss, Thorne, L.Ovey, Deakin, Davey, Barrow, Stephens, Sharp, Marsh; Subs: Joslin, Paton, Jenkins

12.02.11 - Boca Seniors 3 Shamwickshire Rovers 0

The Brayford Cup has been somewhat elusive over the years for Boca Seniors. Despite being dominant in the league, they have only managed to secure the Premier League's own cup on the one occasion back in 2008. After defeat to Budleigh in the Devon Premier Cup a fortnight ago this competition is now one of Boca's main priorities for the season.

And where better to start than at the home of the North Devon League Premier champions? Both clubs agreed to switch the venue with the forecast of rain looming on the horizon and the Tarka Centre pitch once more in less than perfect condition arguably giving a slight advantage to the hosts. That advantage increased with the pre-match team news: Richard Shannon, Richie Joslin, Jack Jenkins, Rob Paton and Ross Maynard were all declared unavailable leaving Boca with only twelve men.

Ten minutes into the match Darren Todd was forced into making a change as Simon Ovey pulled up with a hamstring injury. With only striker Tom Marsh on the bench a complete tactical change was also required. Despite the setbacks Boca settled well into the game, but as many visiting teams have found over the years, Shammy defended well in numbers and had a physical presence in midfield. Perenial fan favourite Sam Stephens was on the end of some 'treatment' throughout the game.

Chances for both sides were few and far between. It was a battle between Boca's pace out wide against the more direct aerial style on Shammy. Both sides were defending well, particularly the Boca backline, led by the positive Darren Babb in goal, dealing with the dangerous Shammy long throws exceptionally. Mark Thorne's continued good form is one of the reasons that Boca have only conceded one goal in the last four. Taro Bishop and Kurt Bayliss also came in, and although playing out of position put in great performances, working hard to snuff out the Shammy attack. Bishop only lost out on a man of the match award thanks to what was to happen in the second half.

The best chance of the first half fell at the feet of Tom Marsh after James Davey's excellent run and pull back left him with the simple task of slotting home from close range with only the keeper to beat. Unfortunately he could only tamely shoot into the keeper's arms.

Boca began the first half on the front foot and went very close through Kurt Bayliss, his powerful long range strike was superbly tipped over. Boca huffed and puffed but weren't able to break down the red and black wall. It was going to take something very special to break the deadlock and it came fifteen minutes into the second half from the right boot of Mark Barrow. Anyone watching the midweek match at Torrington may have predicted the outcome as Barrow stood over a twenty five yard free kick. The result was the ball nestled in the top left corner of the net. Almost a carbon copy of Tuesday's strike.

Then, five minutes later in an extreme case of deja vu, he repeated the feat, making it two nil. Shammy responded with a short period of pressure where they returned to their aerial bombardment, but once again Boca defended resolutely.

As the end of the match drew near Barrow had one last chance to complete the most unlikely of hat tricks. The distance was similar but the position was slightly more central. This time, the ball was directed lower, around the wall and into the bottom right corner to bag an incredible hat trick for the midfielder, returning to the side after taking a five month break last season.

Boca failed to win a single trophy last term. Mark Barrow was not present in the squad from January to May. Up until that point they had only lost one league match. You do the maths.

Man-of-the-match: Mark Barrow - the league's best player is on top form. Back to back hat tricks, including four free kicks.

Lineup: Babb, L.Ovey, S.Ovey, Thorne, Bayliss, Bishop, Deakin, Stephens, Barrow, Davey, Sharp; Subs: Marsh

08.02.11 - Torrington 0 Boca Seniors 6

The third game in four days saw Boca return to the competion which they have won in four of the last five years, only losing last year's final in extra time so as well as reclaiming the league title, bringing the Westward Ho! Cup back home is a priority.

Because of the quality and depth of the squad the Boss was able to shuffle the pack once more, resting skipper Lewis Ovey, top scorer Richard Shannon and keeper Darren Babb, introducing Steve Johns in goal for his Boca debut whilst trying out a new formation. An attacking formation paid almost immediate dividends against a determined and physical Torrington side who were coming off a late draw against league leaders Appledore on Saturday. Tom Marsh claimed his fourth goal in three games, heading home Jack Jenkins pin point cross. The second goal came soon after, from the penalty spot. After tucking home on Sunday Mark Barrow made no mistake once more.

Barrow was on hand minutes later to make it three. It's been a while since he scored one of his trademark free-kicks but this one was up there with his best. Standing twenty five yards out he curled the ball up and over the green and white wall and it crashed in off the underside of the crossbar, giving the keeper absolutely no chance.

The front three of Marsh, James Davey and Scott Sharp were working hard to win the ball back from each kick off and punished any hesitation from the Torrington midfield and defence. Sharp himself was also enjoying some good possession on the right and had a running battle with the left back for the entire first half. It was the Boca boy who came out of top though when he bagged Boca's fourth after a strong, pacy run.

Matt Deakin claimed another goal to make it a five star first half performance for the visitors, virtually ending Torrington's cup hopes in the process.

That gave Boca the opportunity to make some early second half changes and they introduced all three subsitutes shortly after the break. On the hour mark, another superb Jack Jenkins through ball put former Torrie favourite Sam Stephens clean through on goal and he was unfairly upended. Mark Barrow made it six from the spot, claiming a hat-trick and his sixth of the season in all competitions so far.

Chances for both sides became few and far between as the game wore on except for a late Torrington chance which struck the Boca upright.

Next up for Boca, another cup match, this time the Brayford Cup against the champions, Shamwickshire, a side who have greatly strengthened since their early season poor form. Could possibly give a glimpse of whether Boca are going to up to the challenge of regaining the league title this season?

Man-of-the-match: Jack Jenkins - 'the apprentice' narrowly took the honour from fellow midfielder and 'sorceror' Mark Barrow.

Lineup: Johns, S.Ovey, Joslin, Thorne, Deakin, Jenkins, Barrow, Stephens, Marsh, Davey, Sharp; Subs: Shannon, L.Ovey, Bayliss, Bishop

06.02.11 - Boca Seniors 4 Putford 1

It was not too long ago when a Putford side came to the Tarka Centre and handed out the biggest defeat in recent years to a shell-shocked Boca side. After fifty minutes those braving the continued blustery weather may have been thinking that history could possibly be at risk of repeating itself. Especially after top scorer Richard Shannon had seen a penalty saved early in the first twenty minutes and Richie Joslin had two attempts in the six yard box well saved by the Putford keeper.

Putford were frustrating their hosts with some excellent defending protected by an energetic midfield, and shortly after the break took the lead, albeit in very fortunate circumstances. Finding himself one on one with the oncoming Darren Babb, the Putford hitman somehow shinned the ball over Babb's head, looping over the line.

It was the wake up call that Boca needed and they responded almost immediately through Sam Stephens and in some style. Picking up the ball out wide he stepped around three challenges and let loose an unstoppable curling shot into the top left corner.

Buoyed by the equaliser Boca turned up the heat on the previously inpenetrable Putford back line. Step up Matt Deakin. The little guy is really beginning to find some form this season after a very serious illness in the Summer and in typical style controlled, turned and shot in one fluid move from the edge of the box to put the home side back in charge.

Two turned into three thanks to the right foot of Jack Jenkins, yet another spectacular strike from thirty yards, low and beyond the despairing dive of the previously unbeatable keeper.

Mark Barrow capped off a fine second half Boca performance bagging the fourth from the penalty spot after Stephens was upended in the penalty area following a typical jinking run.

So ultimately a good test for Boca, who needed to be patient in order to claim all three points in their quest to regain the league title.

Man-of-the-match: James Davey - worked tirelessly, the only thing missing was a goal.

Lineup: Babb, S.Ovey, L.Ovey, Paton, Deakin, Joslin, Barrow, Stephens, Jenkins, Davey, Shannon; Subs: Sharp, Marsh

05.02.11 - Boca Seniors 10 Combe Martin 0

After three games in seven weeks, Boca welcome a raft of three games in four days. A chance to improve fitness, rotate the squad, climb the table and progress in the Westward Ho! Cup. First up, Combe Martin in the league. The reverse fixture earlier this season was a very tight affair, with a solitary Richard Shannon penalty the only difference between the sides. But following a mass exodus in personnel, this is now a very different and depleted Combe Martin squad to that which lined up in October.

Turning up with eleven men didn't help their cause much, but when eleven became ten after three minutes due to a dismissal, Combe's difficult task was made nigh-on impossible.

It didn't take long for Boca to score with Tom Marsh grabbing the game's first and second goals. He would later go on to bag a hat-trick and would agree that he could and should have claimed at least one more.

Sam Stephens made it three with an expertly struck curling shot into the top right corner, carefully taking the wind speed and direction into account...ok it was a cross, but a nice goal nonetheless.

Lewis Ovey made it four before Marsh claimed his third before the break. Stephens made it six with a great strike which he actually meant this time and Scott Sharp got number seven. Boca's eighth strike was significant as it was their 100th in all competitions this season and it was claimed by James Davey. Matt Deakin and Davey's second completed the rout.

Man-of-the-match: Tom Marsh - bagged a hat trick and could, possibly should have got another three!

Lineup: Babb, Paton, L.Ovey, Thorne, Barrow, Stephens, Deakin, Bayliss, Joslin, Shannon, Marsh; Subs: S.Ovey, Jenkins, Sharp, Davey, Bishop

29.01.11 - Budleigh Salterton 3 Boca Seniors 1 (aet)

There will be no repeat of the Devon Premier Cup victory of 2009. At least not this year, as Boca were beaten by Peninsula East high flyers Budleigh Salterton in a pulsating contest. It took 120 minutes to finally end the visitors hopes of progressing to meet Galmpton Gents in the semi finals.

The Boca players and management will be waking on Sunday morning wondering what might have been. If not for the width of a post, great goalkeeping or poor finishing the scoreline could quite easily have been reversed.

With a lack of games over recent months and after a scouting mission to watch their opponents in league competition, Darren Todd chose to start with his fittest eleven in order to match Budleigh for industry. Keep up with their workrate and the football will come naturally, that was the plan.

And that plan appeared to be paying off in an even first half. Any early nervousness was soon out the system and the game sprang into life in controversial fashion when Sam Stephens was crudely challenged in the middle of the park. Despite the guilty player leaving the ground with studs showing, a yellow card was the award, much to the amazement of those watching. That frustration boiled over and Jack Jenkins also found himself in the book for an almost equally rash foul. It was time for cool heads and thankfully, that was the end of any real nonsense as both sides concentrated on the game.

However, if Boca were disappointed in the lack of a red card they were dumbstruck minutes later after Taro Bishop was upended in the area with what was a clear penalty. Unfortunately for the visitors the referee saw it differently and waved to play on.

Bishop, playing on the right was keeping his very dangerous and pacy marker at bay whilst also providing an attacking threat.

Budleigh were forced into a subsitution mid way through the half and it seemed to pay dividends. Re-arranging their lineup and switching the left winger to a clearly more comfortable position up front was the catalyst for a dominant period of play, one in which they were denied a goal for offside. As much as The Robins were enjoying the lion's share of possession, Boca were becoming sloppy and gave the ball away on a number of occasions. At half time, going in level was probably fair on both teams and at that stage the game could have gone any way.

The second half began well for Boca as they managed to find cracks in the previously resolute Budleigh back four. However, strikers James Davey and Scott Sharp were unable to convert with only the keeper to beat. Time would tell if they would rue those misses. They didn't have long to wait. Boca found themselves one down when, after evading three challenges on the edge of the penalty area, the Budleigh striker struck low, under the despairing dive of Darren Babb. Babb made a great save with his legs in the first half but he was unable to do anything about the goal, which was nicely slotted into the bottom corner.

The goal only galvanised Boca further and they began to turn the screw once more, forcing the Budleigh defence and midfield deeper and deeper, restricting any further attacks to break aways through the pacy and intelligent Robins strikers. The backline of Lewis and Simon Ovey alongside Mark Thorne had their hands full all day but performed fantastically well.

The Budleigh keeper was already staking a claim for man of the match for his performance up to that stage but he made an additional string of great saves from both subsitute Richard Shannon and the determined Stephens. Even when he was unable to get a hand to the ball he was saved by the post. Following a half cleared Boca corner, Stephens clever lobb evaded everyone but the upright.

And just when Boca thought their pressure wasn't going to pay off and maybe it wasn't going to be their day they received a deserved piece of good fortune, from the most unlikely source. With five minutes remaining, Mark Barrow's corner was turned into his own net by the Budleigh keeper under pressure from Stephens. Game well and truly on and at that stage the home side looked shell shocked.

With a minute remaining the tie could have been sealed. After latching onto Barrow's brilliant through ball Shannon fired an unstoppable half volley millimetres over the bar. And as the referee blew the whistle for the end of normal time, it was Budleigh who breathed a sigh of relief.

So an additional 30 minutes were need to divide the teams. The first chance arrived at the feet of Boca's leading scorer Shannon. Inexplicably he could only lift the ball over the bar instead of converting in the usual manner. That was Boca's last real chance to get ahead for the first time and the tie was effectively sealed soon after when Budleigh punished tired legs and minds with two quick goals. The goals knocked the stuffing out of a spirited Boca side as an attacking force and they were unable to create any further clear opportunities to reduce the deficit. They never gave in and Babb was forced into making some good low saves late on as Budleigh enjoyed the momentum.

Despite being beaten Boca will take heart from a superb team performance and will take comfort in the fact that the game could have gone either way.

Next week (weather permitting) all attention turns back to North Devon League duty once more. A welcome return it must be said. Anyone remember the last time Boca played a league game? Ten weeks ago on Saturday 27th November against Braunton!

Recent talk has been of rivals strengthening in the North Devon league. Any opponents lining up against Boca now will face a determined and unified squad all focused on one thing: getting that league title back.

Man-of-the-match: Mark Barrow - although the Budleigh keeper will receive the official award (which speaks volumes in itself) Barrow was clearly head and shoulders above any other player on the pitch. A class act who never stopped running until the final whistle.

Lineup: Babb, S.Ovey, L.Ovey, Thorne, Bishop, Deakin, Stephens, Barrow, Jenkins, Sharp, Davey; Subs: Shannon, Marsh, Bayliss, Joslin, Paton

23.01.11 - Anchor Chiefs 0 Boca Seniors 18

It's been a while. Over five weeks since Boca kicked a ball in anger. In that time no less than six consecutive matches have been postponed due to the weather. More staggering facts are that eleven of the last fifteen fixtures have fallen foul to the British winter and that only four games have been played since 30th October last year.

Thank heavens for today's fixture then, the second round of the Torridge Cup against Intermediate Two side Anchor Chiefs. With respect to the hosts the difference in class was evident from the first to last whistles as Boca ran riot, chalking up their biggest win in recent memory.

Eighteen unanswered goals came from Scott Sharp (4), Richard Shannon (3), James Davey (3), Kurt Bayliss (2), Sam Stephens (2), Rob Paton, Tom Marsh, Mark Barrow and Lewis Ovey.

Sharp's (and the game's) first goal was the pick of the bunch, his ferocious turn and left-footed volley gave the unfortunate Chiefs keeper no chance. And it set the pattern for the game.

With an eye on next week's re-arranged Devon Premier Cup quarter final, boss Darren Todd shuffled his pack whilst giving those with lesser fitness levels a chance to catch up.

In fairness to the young hosts, despite the total Boca dominance they never gave in until the final whistle and took the defeat in good spirit. A note too for the Chiefs linesman who, with the score at 0-17, sportingly awarded a goal when the referee was unsighted. Other club linesman may wish to take note...

So now all attention turns once more to the Devon Premier Cup next Saturday. A little more hard work will be required this week in order to get the preparations right and increase the fitness levels. The Manager has been on the phone all weekend trying to get a mid-week match organised with one of the recently postponed opponents. Unfortunately, no one wants to play Boca right now. On this performance, maybe it's easy to see why?

Man-of-the-match: Scott Sharp - recently became a Dad for the first time, bagged four, one a cracker. Could be a real handful next week if selected. If so, he'll be ready, that's for sure!

Lineup: Babb, L.Ovey, S.Ovey, Paton, Bayliss, Joslin, Barrow, Stephens, Jenkins, Sharp, Davey; Subs: Shannon, Marsh, Thorne, Bishop

11.12.10 - Boca Seniors 7 Exmouth Town 1

The Tarka Centre has seen it's fair share of Devon Premier Cup history in recent years but but today's result is up there with the best of them. Playing against their third consecutive Peninsula League side Boca finally drew a home fixture for the first time in this season's competition. After last week's postponement every effort was made to get the pitch playable in order to prevent a disrupted season from becoming more so. Thanks to those efforts, although very wet, the Tarka surface was more than acceptable.

For the first time this season Darren Todd had the benefit of calling on a full strength squad with all injuries and suspensions now clear. Their opponents however were light on numbers, just ten able to make the kick-off. Even though it was clear for all to see as the Exmouth players warmed up, the Boca management kept it from the their players in order to ensure that complacency never crept in. They needn't have worried.

Immediately after kick-off it was clear that the pitch was going to be decimated come the final whistle but Boca started well, taking advantage of Exmouth's reduced numbers. They stretched their opponents in midfield, getting the ball wide at every opportunity. The deserved lead was taken with just five minutes on the clock, from the most unlikely player. Mark Thorne grabbed his first Boca goal with a back post header to make it one-nil, especially clever as the sole of his boot was hanging on by a thread. And as this writer ran to the changing room to grab a replacement boot it was two. I don't know the details of the goal, all I know is it was a Matt Deakin special. That's good enough for me.

As those on the sidelines still rubbed their eyes in disbelief at the scoreline they were soon brought back down to earth. Exmouth awarded a penalty against the run of play which they converted. Would that galvanise the visitors? Maybe with eleven men, but back came Boca. James Davey restored the two goal advantage minutes later, not after some discussions between the referee and the linesman following a 'dubious' flag. It didn't matter. Goal to Boca.

Three became four just before the break and it was that man Deakin again. Always the man for the big occasion he poked home his second after some more great work from Richie Joslin. Effectively that was game over. During the melee, Exmouth's eleventh man finally made it to the game after a long journey, but it was too little too late.

Any fight at all from Exmouth was extinguished early in the second half thanks to a well taken goal from substitute Scott Sharp, chomping at the bit to take part after sitting on the sidelines for several weeks through suspension. He headed home a second soon after. Boca were able to introduce fresh legs to the game to run their tired opponents ragged even further.

The biggest surprise of the match was that Richard Shannon hadn't managed to get in on the act. That was until Sharp was fouled in the area which presented Shannon was the chance to get his customary goal. He converted in the normal manner to make it seven.

The scoreline could have been extended further still if not for some good goalkeeping and clearances of the line but that would have been greedy. Boca were more than happy with the seven goals. Just to win would have been enough if you'd asked anyone ninety minutes previously.

So the adventure continues. And if it ends on January 22nd at Budleigh Salterton so be it. But Boca will never forget today. And what about going to Budleigh, currently sitting pretty in the Peninsula League and getting the win? Impossible? They said that before...

Man-of-the-match: Mark Thorne

Lineup: Babb, S.Ovey, L.Ovey, Deakin, Joslin, Stephens, Jenkins, Barrow, Davey, Shannon; Subs: Bayliss, Bishop, Maynard, Marsh, Sharp

27.11.10 - Boca Seniors 5 Braunton 2

It wasn't so long ago that Boca v Braunton was the battle for the top spots. Whether it was for the league title or a cup final the games always had something riding on the result, and the victories were pretty even for both teams. These days, the main challenge comes from the likes of Appledore, North Molton and Shamwickshire but in fairness to Braunton, they have gone through a major first team squad overhaul in recent times. Bar one or two faithfull regulars, the Wanderers first eleven is almost unrecognisable from that of only a few seasons ago.

With the significance of the history of the tie not lost on Boca they knew this was a must win game for them if they wanted to keep the pressure on those at the top. The only issue at present is momentum. Not helped by postponements due recent wet conditions it can be difficult to stay fit and maintain a good rhythm. And the lack of consistent league matches may have contributed to the slow start from the home side. An uncharacteristic error saw Matt Deakin give the ball away to James Galliford. The former Boca man skipped three challenges and toe poked the ball under the oncoming Darren Babb to give Braunton an early, and deserved lead. Until that point, Braunton were the hungrier side and were much more accurate with their passing.

As it often does, the goal seemed to breathe new life into Boca and they began to get going, however they were guilty of squandering gilt-edged chances. Tom Marsh found himself free in the box on two occasions but he could only glance headers wide. Sam Stephens had carbon copies of chances which fell to him on the edge of the area but he could only blast over. Twenty five minutes in though, he found the target. After being found by Jack Jenkins nicely chipped through ball Stephens swivelled and got a shot away into the far right corner to restore parity.

The second half began very much as the first half ended with Boca shading possession and creating the better chances. The Braunton resistance was holding firm, lead by a good performance from Johnny Vaughan between the sticks, until the hour mark when a ten minute flurry of goals effectively killed off the tie. Strikes from Richard Shannon, Kurt Bayliss and substitute James Davey put the game beyond the reach of the visitors. The impressive Davey added his second with ten to go and Braunton punished a lapse in concentration to claim a late consolation to make the final score 5-2.

Boca can ill afford such lapses in concentration next Saturday as they welcome South West Peninsula east side Exmouth Town 2006 to the Tarka Centre for their fourth round Devon Premier Cup fxture. The South Devon side are on a decent run of league form, notwithstanding the defeat of Appledore in the last round. It's sure to be a tough match for the 2009 winners of the competition.

Man-of-the-match: Mark Barrow - playing in a more withdrawn role than previous years, but no less effective or influential.

Lineup: Babb, S.Ovey, Joslin, Thorne, Barrow, Jenkins, Stephens, Bayliss, Deakin, Shannon, Marsh; Subs: Davey, Bishop, Patton, Maynard

14.11.10 - Halwill 1 Boca Seniors 5

After another Tarka Centre cancellation due to a waterlogged pitch on Saturday it was nice to be able to get a game in ahead of next week's biggest game of the league campaign so far against North Molton. Today's game saw Boca pitted up against a side they've never faced before, Halwill of the Devon & Exeter League in the Torridge Cup first round.

With the match given the go ahead earlier in the day it was clear from the minute they set foot on the pitch that it was going to cut up, even if it managed to stay dry throughout the match. It didn't, and come the end it became very sticky and heavy. The game itself was entertaining enough nonetheless.

Boca began fairly well but found it difficult to find their passing range and break down an organised Halwill backline. When they managed to open the hosts up, Matt Deakin, Richard Shannon and Taro Bishop were all unable to convert. After twenty minutes of trying they finally had success, Jack Jenkins' shot was too hot for the keeper to handle and Shannon was there to pounce on the rebound. Tom Marsh got himself in on the act soon after, heading home Deakin's corner, making it seven goals in the last five games for the former North Molton striker.

At half time, Boca introduced recent signing Jamie Pow for his debut in goal but his first real call into action was to pick the ball out of his net following a converted penalty. As Boca often find, if you switch off for even a short period of time, you run the risk of being punished, and that's what happened. That Halwill goal also gave the home side a boost of confidence and they found a renewed spring in their step. That confidence was short lived however as Marsh grabbed his second following Mark Barrow's pull back.

Three became four thanks to substitute James Davey making his return from injury and Kurt Bayliss made it five with five to go with a crisp strike into the far corner.

So all attention now turns to next Saturday's crunch tie against North Molton. Boca may have scored 26 goals in their last four matches but they know that not many teams put many goals past one of the main challengers for this year's title.

Man-of-the-match: Richie Joslin - turned in another organised display at the back.

Lineup: Babb, Joslin, L.Ovey, Thorne, Deakin, Bishop, Barrow, Jenkins, Stephens, Shannon, Marsh; Subs: Pow, Bayliss, Davey

06.11.10 - Crediton United 0 Boca Seniors 4

One thing you're guaranteed of when you watch Boca Seniors in the Devon Premier Cup is a match full of incident. Today's game versus yet another South West Peninsula League side, Crediton United was no different. A flurry of cards, both yellow and red, some controversial refereeing, last minute pull-outs due to injury, all in a day's work in the Devon Premier Cup.

Firstly, a blow to Darren Todd's preparation with midfielder Sam Stephens failing a fitness test after picking up a knock against Georgeham last week. In came Ross Maynard and also the returning Lewis Ovey. Strikers James Davey and Scott Sharp were unavailable through injury and suspension respectively.

Boca began well and created good chances for Tom Marsh and strike partner Richard Shannon but neither could find the net. The visitors seemed to be the sharper of the two sides in the early exchanges but failed to really trouble the Crediton back line. As the half wore on Boca became a little impatient and began to give the ball away all over the pitch. That lack of concentration allowed the home side to have more of the ball than Boca would have liked and may have found themselves one nil down if not for the acrobatics of Darren Babb. The big guy superbly tipped over a close range header mid way through the first half.

When Boca strung passes together they caused the Crediton defence problems and with minutes remaining came the game's first moment of controversy. After being put through by Jack Jenkins, Richard Shannon rolled his marker and bore down on goal. Thirty yards out he was upended but the referee deemed that the guilty defender wasn't the last man, much to the away bench's frustration.

Boca reflected at half time on a relatively poor performance considering recent form and discussed what it was going to take to claim another Devon Premier Cup win. The response came early into the second half after Richard Shannon guided Mark Barrow's pin point cross into the bottom corner.

Boca then received a numerical advantage soon after when Tom Marsh was scythed down just outside the area whilst heading towards goal. This time, a red card was the correct punishment. Unfortunately, Mark Barrow was unable to convert the free-kick. They needn't have worried as minutes later King of the Devon Cup Shannon made it two, rounding the keeper and finishing in his usual style. Boca were making the numerical advantage count and finally found some rhythm with Barrow and Jenkins key in most good things.

Tom Marsh was rewarded for his typical hard working performance with Boca's third with twenty minutes to go and Matt Deakin made it four after breaking from midfield to punish a tired Crediton defence.

Crediton were restricted to half chances throughout the match by a defensive line superbly marshalled once again by Simon Ovey. After today's other results it's left once again to Boca to fly the flag for North Devon football. Things are starting to take a very similar shape to 2008/09. Surely not?! See you for the next exciting installment?!

Man-of-the-match: Simon Ovey - a much improved second half performance by everyone but Ovey takes it once again thanks to a dominant display throughout the match.

Lineup: Babb, L.Ovey, S.Ovey, Thorne, Deakin, Joslin, Maynard, Barrow, Jenkins, Shannon, Marsh; Subs: Patton, Bayliss, Bishop

30.10.10 - Boca Seniors 9 Georgeham & Croyde 1

It's been two weeks since the last game but Boca's thirst for goals doesn't seem to have abated in that time as they rattled in another nine against Georgeham in the first round of the Brayford Cup.

Minutes before kick-off they were thrown a curve ball with the news that new signing Jamie Pow was not eligible to play as he had not signed in time to play in the league cup. With fellow keeper Darren Babb away the request was put up for a stand in keeper. Up stepped Richie Joslin to don the gloves. He has now officially played in every position for Boca.

The most pleasing aspect of today's result was the performance, particularly so due to the poor playing surface. Once again, playing their own brand of passing and movement thay tore the visitors into pieces, racing into a four-nil lead at the break. The rout was started by Scott Sharp who is beginning to look like his surname suggests, picking up the loose ends of some tough tackles from Sam Stephens then Tom Marsh. Marsh had been previously unlucky by hitting the corner of the post and bar from an acute angle with a ferocious shot. His time would come later.

The second came soon after from the commited Stephens, who, after his close season signing has made himself a key figure in the middle of midfield. He neatly finished in the far corner after latching onto Jack Jenkins beautiful pass. The third was old school Boca with Mark Barrow and Matt Deakin combining superbly. The finish was pure Deaks.

Tom Marsh added a fourth with a glancing header minutes before the break. If Boca were pleased with the first half display what came in the second was even better. Four more goals. Three of them goal of the season contenders.

Matt Deakin's season well and truly kicked off in style five minutes after the break. More good hold up play from Marsh enabled the ball to find it's way out wide to Deakin. He ghosted round three defenders and unleashed a curling shot into the top corner. Pure class.

But only moments afterwards Jack Jenkins staked an even bigger claim for goal of the season contender. He superbly hammered the ball into the top corner from thirty yards, leaving the Georgeham keeper rooted with no chance.

At six-nil, Georgeham nicked a goal back thanks to a deflected free-kick on the edge of the penalty area, stand in keeper Joslin unlucky not to keep a clean sheet.

Tom Marsh claimed a deserved second, linking up well with strike partner Sharp.

Ross Maynard added his customary goal against his former club, tapping in from close range.

Goal of the season contender C came from Stephens. He expertly jinked his way through the tired defence and fired low into the far left corner to make it nine today and seventeen goals in the last two games.

Man-of-the-match: Jack Jenkins - pushed hard for the hounours by a lot of players, notably Marsh and Simon Ovey but 'Barrow's apprentice' pulled the strings today.

Line-up: Joslin, Patton, S.Ovey, Thorne, Bishop, Deakin, Barrow, Stephens, Jenkins, Marsh, Sharp; Subs: Shannon, L.Ovey, Bayliss, Maynard

16.10.10 - Boca Seniors 8 Bradworthy 0

Goals from Scott Sharp (3), Sam Stephens (2), Tom Marsh (2) and Jack Jenkins secured all three points for Boca and sent them to the top of the league for the first time this season.

Man-of-the-match: Simon Ovey - waiting patiently in the wings for a few weeks now but took his chance with both hands. Awesome display at the back in a game noted fot the action at the other end.

Lineup: Babb, S.Ovey, Thorne, Joslin, Deakin, Baylss, Maynard, Stephens, Barrow, Sharp, Marsh; Subs: Bishop, Patton, Jenkins

09.10.10 - Holsworthy 1 Boca Seniors 2

The Devon Premier Cup adventure begins again and after today's victory Holsworthy can now add their name to the ever growing list of more 'senior' clubs beaten by Boca Seniors in this competition. They join Bovey Tracey, Totnes & Dartington, Kingskerswell & Chelston, Exeter Civil Service and others defeated by Boca, looking to progress in a competition held close to their hearts since that famous evening in April 2009.

Having to switch the venue of fixture due to the annual national tennis tournament in Barnstaple was, if anything, a bonus to Boca as the better facilities and surface suited their playing style. Before the game, this season's current top scorer Richard Shannon was ruled out with a knee injury meaning Darren Todd had to make slight changes to the starting eleven. Skipper Lewis Ovey was also unavailable due to work commitments. Two key personnel missing and with what was to come later in the game, it looked like it might be the 08/09 run all over again.

The difference between now and then though is the strength in depth in the squad. Boca welcomed back Taro Bishop from suspension and he took his place back on the bench.

The match itself began at a frantic pace with both sides guilty of giving away possession. On the slight downward slope of the Holsworthy pitch Boca discarded the usual play through midfield style for a more direct route to the front two of James Davey and Scott Sharp. Chances were few and far between but when they did arrive James Davey was unable to convert on a few occasions.

Both teams were cancelling each other out but after a few minutes of sustained Boca possession the deadlock was broken. Mark Barrow's low direct free-kick was only half cleared and Scott Sharp was on hand to pounce on the ball in the six yard box. A huge goal in the context of the game and with only minutes remaining. Sharp's day was to go from high to low as within minutes of the restart he was sent off for an alledged use of an elbow. This cam only moments after strike partner Davey was forced to leave the game through injury. His replacement Tom Marsh was now tasked with leading the line by himself.

So Boca were down to ten men but a goal up. Most teams would have tried to consolidate the lead but Marsh was doing the job of two men up front and his persistence was rewarded just after the hour. A long pass wasn't dealt with by the Holsworthy defence and Marsh rounded the oncoming keeper and slotted home to silence the home crowd who were very influential in the sending off and remained vocal until that point.

Richie Joslin was superbly marshalling the defensive line in the absence of club captain Ovey and restricted Holsworthy to half chances from set pieces only. Holsworthy though began to increase the pressure and sure enough, in part thanks to a momentary lapse in concentration, they reduced the deficit from a well taken corner with fifteen minutes remaining to set up a tense finale. They managed to break down the Boca backline only once in the final few moments but failed to seriously trouble Darren Babb. Marsh could have bagged a second after a good combination with Mark Barrow but the scoreline remained unchanged and Boca claimed yet another famous, and eventful Devon Premier Cup victory.

Man-of-the-match: Richie Joslin - very much a team effort with everyone playing their part but for the second week running Jossie claims the award for his dominant performance at the back.

Lineup: Babb, Joslin, Thorne, Patton, Maynard, Deakin, Barrow, Stephens, Jenkins, Davey, Sharp; Subs: Bayliss, Marsh, Bishop, S.Ovey

02.10.10 - Combe Martin 0 Boca Seniors 1

Hollands Park. The venue for arguably the beginning of the end of last years title challenge thanks to a demoralising 3-0 defeat. With that setback still fresh in the minds of those who played that day, there was no better reason to come away with a win. That fateful day also saw a missed penalty from Richard Shannon. So who better to step up and take the spot-kick awarded on ten minutes after Sam Stephens' driving run was unfairly ended? There was no mistake this time as Shannon took his tally to twelve so far this term.

Boca enjoyed a huge amount of possession in midfield with the trio of Mark Barrow, Sam Stephens and Jack Jenkins influential in keeping the ball. For all their possession though, Boca failed to create many clear chances apart from Stephens, Jenkins and James Davey going close. A combination of a lack of movement and a well organised bank of ten burgundy and blue shirts were restricting the visitors from increasing the lead. Darren Babb's participation was limited to being an interested onlooker.

In the second half, when Boca broke down the resistance it was the Combe Martin keeper and the crossbar who combined to keep Boca at bay; Jenkins, Davey, Barrow and Matt Deakin were all thwarted on half a dozen occasions.

There were a few minor scares at the other end but the Boca backline held firm to secure a good win to put them four points behind league leaders Barnstaple AAC with four games in hand.

Man-of-the-match: Richie Joslin - learning a new position game by game but beginning to look a lot more comfortable.

Lineup: Babb, L.Ovey, Joslin, Thorne, Bayliss, Maynard, Stephens, Jenkins, Barrow, Shannon, Davey; Subs: Deakin, Sharp, Patton, S.Ovey, Marsh

15.09.10 - Braunton 4 Boca Seniors 6

Match report unavailable.

Man-of-the-match: Sam Stephens - takes the award for the second consecutive week. Scored two and had a hand in the others.

Line-up: Babb, L.Ovey, Joslin, Patton, Barrow, Maynard, Stephens, Jenkins, Bayliss, Shannon, Davey; Subs: Deakin, Marsh, Thorne, Daniel, S.Ovey

08.09.10 - Boca Seniors 5 Barnstaple AAC 2

After last week's shock defeat at the hands of their local rivals Boca were given a swift opportunity to exact some revenge only seven days later. A sizeable crowd were in attendance to witness a blistering start from the home side as they raced into a two-nil lead thanks to goals from Richard Shannon and former Ammies man, Scott Sharp, which he particularly enjoyed. New signing Sam Stephens had a hand in both goals and was driving Boca forward, linking up well with Jack Jenkins and Mark Barrow.

Two up within ten minutes and it could easily have been more, with Richard Shannon and Matt Deakin thwarted by some desperate defending. But in true Boca fashion, rather than capitalise on their dominance they allowed the visitors back into the game. A catalogue of defensive errors resulted in a free kick on the edge of the penalty area which ex-Boca player Jordan Charran lashed home to reduce the deficit.

The remainder of the first half was scrappier as Ammies came back into the game, regrouping after the early storm. Their pressure was rewarded on the stroke of half-time from the penalty spot, another former Boca player Kyson Chugg slotting home.

Boca were disappointed to go in level at half time considering their early dominance and were forced into changing their shape in the hope of regaining the upper hand.

The first twenty minutes of the second half looked as though it would remain a draw as both teams struggled to break each other down. That was until Mark Barrow stepped up. After taking a break from the game for eight months he has found his appetite for the game once more and he sweetly curled in a free kick from twenty yards to give Boca the lead and those watching a reminder of what's been missing for some time.

The two-goal lead was restored soon after by another returning player for this season, Matt Deakin who was on hand to tap home from close range and the points were sewn up by Shannon to claim his second of the match and tenth strike of the season already.

So vengeance is sweet for Boca. But as always the challenges come thick and fast. Next week is no exception either as they travel to Braunton.

Man-of-the-match: Sam Stephens - sparkling debut from the new boy. The perfect foil to the likes of Barrow, Deakin, Shannon, Jenkins etc.

Lineup: Babb, L.Ovey, Patton, Joslin, Deakin, Stephens, Barrow, Jenkins, Bayliss, Shannon, Sharp; Subs: Davey, Daniel, Maynard, Marsh, S.Ovey

01.09.10 - Barnstaple AAC 4 Boca Seniors 1

After a steady start, the first big match of the season so far came against local rivals Barnstaple AAC, a rivalry which has intensified over the last few years and made even stronger by the defection of four players into the Boca camp over the Summer.

Obviously struggling for numbers since the 'mass walkout' in the last few months, Ammies called upon their full squad resources for the game. And after thirty minutes their introduction paid dividends as they raced into a three-nil lead. Boca couldn't handle the pace and strength of the Ammies front line and were punished on three occasions in a similar manner.

Boca managed to pull one back before half-time after former AAC striker Scott Sharp was bundled over in the penalty area by the Ammies keeper. Strike partner Richard Shannon stepped up to put the resulting penalty away in the usual manner. So at three-one at half time there was some hope for the visiting side and they changed to a more attacking formation with a view to getting back into the game.

Early Boca pressure almost paid off as the AAC defensive unit denied Shannon and Sharp on a number of occasions. Then came the sucker punch at the other end, against the run of play. A defensive mix up between Simon Ovey and Darren Babb gave Jordan Charran the easiest chance to tap the ball over the line to effectively kill off the Boca fightback.

Man-of-the-match: James Davey - not playing is his preferred position but doing a job for the team nonetheless.

Lineup: Babb, Maynard, L.Ovey, S.Ovey, Bayliss, Davey, Jenkins, Daniel, Deakin, Shannon, Sharp; Subs: Barrow, Joslin

28.08.10 - Dolton Rangers 0 Boca Seniors 2

Next up: Dolton Rangers, last season's promoted side from the Senior Division. A good test for Boca, one made more difficult with having Mark Barrow, Lewis Ovey, Richie Joslin and Tom Marsh unavailable, testing the squad to the full.

The home side began brightly, led by ex-Boca player Mike Cowell and made their presence felt with some tough tackling. If Boca were going to take any points here, it was clear that they were going to have to earn them. Once the game settled down the chances started to come for the visitors. James Davey's sharp turn and strike on the edge of the box was unlucky to hit the upright with the keeper beaten. Soon after Richard Shannon was denied by a good save by the Dolton keeper.

But as the game wore on, playmaker Jack Jenkins became more influential and his superb pass put Scott Sharp through. With lots still to do the former Ammies man sweetly finished into the far corner underneath the oncoming keeper.

Almost immediately one became two. Matt Deakin's tenacity won the ball in the middle of midfield and Jenkins again unlocked the Dolton back line, this time James Davey finished well. At that stage Boca were rampant and could have made it three in five minutes. Starting from the back, some lovely one touch passing found Shannon on the edge of the box but his powerful drive was parried again.

The second half began with the home side determined to get something from the game, evident from an even more physical presence. At the other end chances came and went leaving those watching wondering if Boca would rue the missed opportunities. They wondered even more after Dolton were awarded a penalty mid way through the half. Up stepped Mike Cowell, but his low effort was superbly saved by Darren Babb.

Chances continued to come for Boca but they failed to convert and the scoreline remained the same until the final whistle.

Man-of-the-match, sponsored by:

Kurt Bayliss - not playing in his favoured position, but 'the Boca Bulldog' has carried his good pre-season form into the early league campaign.  

Lineup: Babb, Maynard, Thorne, Patton, Bayliss, Bishop, Deakin, Jenkins, Sharp, Davey, Shannon; Subs: Daniel, S.Ovey, Stephens

21.08.10 - Georgeham 1 Boca Seniors 5

So here we go again. New season, new faces, same kit. For now at least. First up, perenial bogey side Georgeham, away from home. After last season's bitter disappointments the former champions have regrouped, strengthend and with a steely resolve, hope to reclaim former glories.

In for their first league league starts for Boca came Mark Thorne and Jack Jenkins. It was also a fantastic boost to have stalwarts Mark Barrow and Richard Shannon back in the starting lineup.

This is a massive season for Boca. The Boss knows it, the league knows it and the players know it. And it showed with a nervy start. The first half was an even affair but Boca, playing down the slope, carved out one or two decent chances, with James Davey unable to convert on each occasion. The Georgeham keeper was slightly the busier of the two number ones and at the midway point a draw seemed a fair scoreline.

The first five minutes of the second half pretty much mirrored the first. That was until Ross Maynard arrived in the game. Following a corner the ball dropped to the former Hammer and he unleashed an unstoppable left-footed volley into the top corner. Some way into opening the league account! Now Ross may have been affectionately named 'Rooney' for his choice in elegant gold chains however his goal return cannot in any way be compared to the potato-headed Man Utd and England striker. But he made it two minutes later, glancing home a Richard Shannon corner. Unbelievable stuff in a game seemingly headed towards a stalemate.

The madness continued shortly afterwards and Shannon got in on the act himself. After being put through with a defence splitting pass from new boy Jenkins, Shannon found the far corner of the net in the usual manner.

If goals one, two and three were well worked, number four was pure good fortune. Richie Joslin's hopeful drive towards goal wasn't dealt with by the Hammers defence, leaving James Davey with an easy tap in from a yard out. Four goals in a fifteen minute spell effectively secured the points but as usual Georgeham refused to throw in the towel. 

All hope was definitely gone with ten minutes remaining with Scott Sharp getting a debut goal to make it five. It was almost the perfect day but Boca conceded a late consolation with seconds remaining, much to the annoyance of Babb.

So, an all round decent team performance in terrible conditions against a side who have the opportunity to be in with a title chance themselves is a great start for Boca and like the Boss says, we're already two points better off than last season!

Man-of-the-match, sponsored by:

Mark Barrow - showed Boca just what they missed during the run-in last season. A display of composure, energy and the usual class. The Sorceror is also passing his knowledge on to fellow midfielder and apprentice Jenkins. Looks like it may be a partnership to be wary of...

Lineup: Babb, Bayliss, L.Ovey, Thorne, Joslin, Daniel, Barrow, Jenkins, Joslin, Shannon, Davey; Subs: Sharp, Marsh, Bishop, Patton, S.Ovey