Exmouth 13 - 10 Bideford

After last week’s hard-fought win against Cullompton, Exmouth colts displayed another gritty team performance to beat Bideford in the Devon Merit table with a last minute penalty.

Exmouth started the game well, with early pressure from quick line breaks and forward mettle. The pack had a great day, securing good ball for the backs to work off and bring together a determined, well-drilled team performance.

Both teams were up for this game and Bideford put Exmouth under the cosh for a few phases of the match. However, Exmouth were not going to be put down and all the hard work over the last few weeks had to pay off.

Excellent field territory gained from tactical kicking, led by Dan Macleod and Lloyd Murrin, put the cockles where they needed to be. Phase after phase Exmouth were wearing down the Bideford defence until finally the visitors gave way. Kev Rodwell scored a well deserved try under the posts with powerful running following ball spread through the back line. Murrin Converted.

Each team took it in turns to break away at the gain line with, at times sloppy defence, allowing Bideford to break through. Although Exmouth were able to keep the visitors from scoring in the first half they put themselves under unnecessary pressure in their end of the field. Yet, Exmouth pulled together and won back possession to once again counter attack. A penalty in the opponents twenty-two, gave Lloyd Murrin the chance to add an extra three points to make the score 10-0.

Darting runs by Full-Back Anthony Tribble startled the visitors’ defence, when a well taken chip over the back line allowed him to collect his own kick and run through. Last minute tackling from the visitors denied an almost certain score to stay 10-0 at the break.

At half time changes were made to both sides to give fresh legs a chance to make an impact. Grant Atkins came on and had an intrepid day in the front row, securing the scrums and winning ball in ruck’s and mauls.

Chances not taken by the Exmouth team gave Bideford a chance to strike back. From a silly penalty, Bideford were able to command a good field position to allow them to catch and drive over for a well taken try. This bought the score to 10-7.  Once again pressure by the visitors saw Exmouth give away another penalty which evened the score.

With the bit between their teeth Exmouth stayed calm and collected to pull of a great victory. Lloyd Murrin had an outstanding day at centre with line breaks all day and good defence. It was his boot that gave Exmouth another league match win this week.  Almost the last kick of the match saw him converting a fine penalty in the dying minutes of the game that saw Exmouth come out on top.

This was another entertaining game from both sides enjoyed by supporters and players from both sides. Exmouth are showing real grit and determination this season, with strength in depths and players fighting for positions in all areas. 

Devon u18’s played Gloucester at Crediton on Sunday and Exmouth had two players in the winning line-up.  Ben Waistell had another solid game in the back row while Sam Bull, at second–row, enjoyed clean line-out ball against much taller opposition.  The work rate from both players reflects the great set up and positive ethic Exmouth currently enjoy.