IPPLEPEN Athletic picked up a huge point in the Devon Football League which they hope will be a sign of things to come.

It has been a hugely difficult season for Ipplepen thus far, consistently wallowing in the lower reaches of the table and currently occupying the wooden spoon place.

A goalless draw at home against Beer Albion saw them avoid defeat for just the fifth time in 2024/25 and could well serve as a catalyst for their journey up the standings.

Bere Alston United, their nearest challengers, were beaten 2-1 by Dartmouth AFC courtesy of a Kye Graham brace and so the pair are now both on nine points.

Newtown in 12th with 18 points, Plymstock United in 13th with 16 and North Molton Sports Club in 14th with 13 are the trio that need to be in the sights of the two bottom clubs in the DFL.

Given Beer Albion are at the other end of the spectrum, in fourth on 34pts, this result should not be overlooked or written off by any means.

A trip to 11th-placed Budleigh Salterton closes out the month of January for Ipplepen on Saturday 25 before they kickstart February by hosting Newtown. This could be a crucial pair of games if any momentum is to build for the ‘Pens.

Looking at those around them and coming up on the 25th, Bere Alston host the aforementioned Beer Albion, Newtown host Thoverton, North Molton host a high-flying University of Exeter side and Plymstock United visit Dartmouth.

Then, onto February 1 and Bere Alston take on 10th-placed Appledore whilst North Molton and Plymstock are both on their travels against stronger teams.