BOVEY Tracey AFC’s St Luke’s Bowl clash with local rivals Buckland Athletic was a night to remember for more than the action on the field.

There were six goals, a red card, a penalty shootout and plenty of drama beyond that as Bovey edged out the Yellows.

The feel-good story of the night involved both clubs with Bovey, the day prior to the game, announcing on social media that they would be “donating a portion of tomorrow night’s 50/50 draw proceeds along with a portion of the net gate receipts towards Jared (Lewington).”

They continued, “We know football is about more than just the game- it’s about community, coming together, and looking after each other in difficult times.”

Lewington is a key player for Buckland and it was difficult to watch when he was stretchered off at the end of August, in his side’s Western League win over Bradford Town at The VX3 Stadium.

His club confirmed the extent of the injury in the following days, writing that the forward “has suffered a tear to the meniscus and ACL rupture which awaits a surgery decision.”

They also responded to Bovey’s post; “We are very grateful for the generosity that Bovey have shown in proactively supporting our number 10”, as well as encouraging everyone at the game to “give what they can.”

Bovey boss Ben Gerring told the Mid-Devon Advertiser a bit more about it: “He’s a good local footballer, we’ve got his dad here as well, his dad does unbelievable amounts for this football club so it’s a gesture from Bovey Tracey to Jared.

“Jared is a good friend off the field and I played with him as well. Hopefully we raised some good money for him tonight and that helps towards his recovery.

“He’s a top, top lad and a top player and we hope to see him back on the pitch soon.”

Without wanting to speculate, it is no secret that ACL injuries lead to a lengthy spell on the sidelines and so, not only is it a real blow to the club but to Jared as a player and as a person.

Buckland 1st XI manager Matt Cusack labelled this move from Bovey as “a lovely gesture.”

Cusack added, “In times like these, when players get serious injuries, the football community comes together and ultimately wins.

“It’s a fantastic gesture from Bovey and we thank them for that. They didn’t have to do that and there was a sizable crowd here tonight so hopefully that will go a long way for Jared to help him as part of his recovery.”

Jared himself “couldn’t believe” the support that he received and is still receiving from various members of the footballing community.

“Buckland have been great, they’ve been a massive help from the minute that I got injured.”

He was also blown away by Bovey’s pledge, “I can’t believe what a great gesture this was from Bovey on Wednesday for me, any amount of money was massively appreciated and it will go towards the rehab and physio sessions.

“It just shows how good and big the football community is.”

He is somewhat in limbo still; “At the minute, just waiting until I go and see the consultant on Monday, after that I’ll know what I’m doing surgery-wise and what the plan is,” but he remains focused: “I want to try my best to get back to playing again.”

Such a great act of unity really was a pleasure to see with football proving to be far more than just a sport.