Crediton 29 - 3 Exmouth

Early in the season Exmouth pulled off a close victory at home against a very powerful Crediton team and this was always going to be a very tough match for this young Cockles side.

A combination of injuries and holidays once again demonstrated the overall enthusiasm of the squad still being able to travel with a full side and a full compliment of substitutes who all saw action.

A slow start by the Exmouth team has almost become a bit of a habit as Crediton crossed for a converted try in the first few minutes. The bigger, more experienced Crediton pack controlled the scrums and despite heroics by Alex Hole the Exmouth scrum was always under threat.

A drive into Crediton territory was rewarded by a penalty, by Darren Wood, to bring the score to 7-3, but despite some purple patches the Crediton defence stood firm and Exmouth were unable to break through.
Some interesting interpretations of play left both sides a little confused but credit to both teams for maintaining their discipline.

Joe Parkin stepped up a year into the scrum-half berth and demonstrated the same skills and vision as he filled the gap left by his injured older brother. He has a very solid game putting pressure on his opposite number and making good use of the possession to push the team forward. The link with stand-in fly-half Darren Wood was very clean and gave him time to select options clearing the line and putting pressure kicks down the line.

Although the Crediton forwards were more experienced and heavier the Exmouth team kept battling throughout and Chris Button, Matt Kain, Leigh Crellin and Sam Bull are worthy of mention but does not detract from the effort made by the other forwards.

Determined defence was the order of the day and Archie O'Connell and Terry Mears combined in the centre providing flashed of brilliance in attack and resolute in defence. Lloyd Murrin grows in confidence and again was able to show his deceptive agility to break through tackles.

In total Crediton scored 5 tries, two by Richard Bright, and determined tackling and failure by Crediton to release the ball could have seen one or two more.

The second half was a much more balanced affair with Exmouth digging deep to thwart the Crediton pressure and came close to breaking the Crediton gain line - but was not to be. Crediton kept their line intact and the only two tries were scored.

This season was always going to be a steep learning curve for these young lads and their commitment and enthusiasm cannot be understated as they make the transition from junior to senior rugby. They are learning each week and as players return to key positions they are well placed to complete a respectable season.