Cullompton 5 - 20 Exmouth

This was always going to be a tough match for Exmouth, with players missing from this developing group.  With Cullompton scoring from the kick off Exmouth pulled through with an excellent team performance.  This was a strong Cullompton side whose results, so far, not reflecting their individual strength and skills.

An unconvincing start by the Exmouth team, from the kick-off, led to a try in the first minute of the game.  Cullompton made a break from the back of a scrum and managed to offload it to the backs. Exmouth were stunned and it took a well worked try by Sam Reid in the corner to even up the score some 15 minutes later. 

A sloppy penalty gave ‘Cully’ the chance for a shot at goal, but they failed to put their team ahead. From then on the Cockles didn’t look back and continued with their dominance. The team worked as a unit all over the pitch making territory and possession theirs. This pressure was rewarded and Exmouth came away with more points, when Shaun Fayter converted a penalty.

Joe Parkin had a gutsy day at scrum half controlling the ball and making decisive breaks taking total control of the game. Sam Bull had another solid game at no 8 and led encouraged his forwards to provide good ball for Joe to work with.

After the half time break, Exmouth were battling it out in the opponents 22 and came away with another well worked try.  Joe Parkin snatched the ball in the home team’s half and quick hands led to Fayter running in under the posts. He then converted his own try making the score 13-5. Cullompton stepped up a gear with a period of continued pressure encamped in the Cockle’s half.  A well controlled Exmouth defensive line, both backs and forwards, assured the home team didn’t break through again.

Exmouth rounded the game off with a deserved try by Adam Morris. This time coming from excellent forward control to set up a platform from which Adam powered across the line making the final score 20-5.

This was an excellent team performance from a depleted Exmouth side showing what strength they have in depth.  The specific contributions from Sam Reid, Joe Parkin and Sam Bull were acknowledged by their team mates.

Cullompton once again showed their mettle sticking to the task throughout and there are clear signs that they have the makings of a team capable of taking scalps in the remainder of this season.  And as ever the generous hospitality was enjoyed by all.