JOSH MARINARO has given Barnstaple AAC a bit of hope in their battle against relegation.

The midfielder capped an excellent display by netting the only goal at Northam Lions in the North Devon League senior division.

After conceding 25 goals and scoring just twice in five consecutive defeats, the Ammies finally had something to smile about.

Things have improved slightly with manager Jeremy Hill back from injury and Karl Smith and Simon Osment bringing their experience to a young squad.

And Marinaro's first-half strike moved them off the bottom of the table at the expense of Torrington.

Bude Town continue to be the most unpredictable team in the division.

Boosted by a guest appearance from Camelford striker Mark Gusterson, they were in superb form to end Chittlehampton's winning streak.

Gusterson hit a hat-trick and Charlie Watton made it 4-0 before Jamie Giffard netted a consolation.

Chittle's defeat means Bideford are nine points clear at the top after their hard-earned 3-2 win at Braunton.

James Rees put the Robins ahead and they had plenty of chances to increase the lead before Braunton hit back in the second half.

Dave Mason capped a fine performance by smashing the equaliser and making two goal-line clearances.

Louis Murrell headed the second but Nathan Bate made it 2-2 with his third headed goal in three games and Carl Holliman stepped out of defence to a hit terrific winner from long range.

Lynton and Lynmouth had few problems with a 7-0 victory against South Molton.

Martyn Phillips had an eventful first 35 minutes, scoring twice and seeing a penalty saved before limping off with a hamstring injury.

His replacement, Tommy Herd, and fellow sub George Geddes got on the scoresheet, along with Max Smith, Luke Dyer and an own goal.

After losing to Woolsery in the Arlington Cup last week, AFC Anchor turned the tables in intermediate one.

Tom Frost scored his first goal since October and two more quickly followed as his hat-trick completed a 3-0 win.

Struggling Putford were on course for a surprise win when Bradley Prouse opened the scoring at High Bickington.

But Tom Sanders slid home the equaliser before the break and Jason Hammond, with his only two chances, gave the hosts a 3-1 win.

The winning margin would have been greater but Darren Avery had his penalty saved by Ryan Walter.

Nathan Delaune, Lewis Harris, Craig McConnachie and Nick Ward (penalty) gave Merton a 4-2 triumph at Braunton. Connor Stapley got both goals for the hosts.