SAM DUNBAVIN was the Academy of Beach Sports' star performer in their last match of the season — as the referee.

Apart from one difficult early carry call, Dunbavin's first match on the ref's stand was faultless.

It's a shame the same could not be said for the Academy team in the South West Volleyball Association Women's League clash with Plymouth.

Playing at home and having beaten Plymouth earlier in the season, they should have had the advantage, but the visitors got their revenge with a 3-0 win.

Play was static and there was no sign of the fighting spirit that had seen the Academy come back from early set losses to steal wins earlier in the season.

Despite the defeat, the Academy, in their first season in the league, are second in the table and can finish no lower than fourth.

The squad will go to Plymouth for the South West Championships on May 8 and 9.

The beach volleyball season starts on May 3. For more information, see www.academyofbeachsports.org.uk.