HOLSWORTHY AFC’S reserves returned to North Devon League Premier Division action after a couple of weeks off with the unenviable task of welcoming runaway leaders Boca Seniors to Upcott Field.

The Magpies had the rare privilege of putting three past their visitors, but Boca made it a perfect ten wins from as many games by scoring six themselves.

Niall Slade, Will Harris and Kieran Jollow were all on target for the hosts, but Sam Box’s hat-trick coupled with Joseph Barker’s brace and an effort from Ross Jones was enough.

With Morwenstow in Cornwall Intermediate Cup action at home to in-form St Piran League Premier Division East leaders Saltash United Reserves, a game which they were soundly beaten 6-0 in having been given a reprieve in the competition following St Ives Town fielding an ineligible player, the only Post area side in action in the Senior Division was Shebbear United.

And the Tangerines didn’t disappoint as they put in a ruthless display to score nine without reply against Merton.

Goals from Mark Parnell and Chris Wildern gave the hosts a 2-0 lead, and although Merton’s keeper made plenty of good saves, the goals continued to come.

James Vanstone helped himself to a hat-trick, Chris Wildern got his second while Ben Brace and Hayden Nimmo were on target before Oli Wildern’s brilliant finish made it nine.

In Intermediate One, Holsworthy Thirds earned a priceless 5-1 success at Hartland Reserves. Elijah Acton notched a hat-trick with Harry Grigg scoring twice for the visitors, while Keith Cornish got the home goal.

Bradworthy progressed in the Devon Intermediate Cup after a 5-4 penalty shoot-out success at Devon and Exeter League side Phoenix United.

Goals from Lewis Clarke, Tudor Placinta and George Wellington helped secure a 3-3 draw in normal time for the visitors.