Exmouth 16 - 17 Exeter Chiefs

An outstanding performance by Exmouth Colts, although unfortunate not to come away with a win against league title chasers Exeter Chiefs. A fantastic turnout by supporters encouraged Exmouth to put in a pristine display of clinical and tactical rugby.

The visitors opened up the score board with Exeter’s scrum-half Ben Cudmore, collecting a quick witted pick and go from a base of a ruck to put his team ahead 5-0 after ten minutes. However Exmouth did not let the score faze them. Poor discipline by the Chiefs allowed Shaun Fayter to reduce the deficit with a penalty just short of the opponent’s ten metre line.

With the score closed to just two points, Exmouth upped the ferocity by continuing with an intense, well structured game-plan. Again Exeter’s discipline was their downfall, when another penalty was conceded within Exmouth’s fly-half’s range. Shaun Fayter again stepped up, this time kicking his team into a half time lead with another converted penalty.

With Exmouth now leading after the break, it was the visitors turn to up the heat. Strong running by the travelling side saw Exmouth’s defence challenged. The pressure was building for the home team, when continued hard-running by the Chiefs paid off. Close to the line, prop Martin Keywood, drove over to score Chiefs second try. Fly-half Josh Sussex converted, leaving the score 6-12 in favour of the chiefs.

With the majority of the game being shared between halves, this entertaining match was on the very edge. Both sides testing each others abilities, with good support play and continued intensity. Nevertheless, Exmouth came out on top when a good set of phases meant winger Kev Rodwell scored to put Exmouth within two points again. Shaun Fayter made an excellent conversion to put his side ahead 13-12.

Exmouth were persistent and stayed calm with a superb controlled game. Chiefs again came hard at Exmouth through the pack and out wide, but Exmouth held off the prolonged attack by the visitors. The home team were able to clear their lines and launch a good phase of play up the field. The Chiefs then gave away a penalty that could have lost the game for them; Shaun Fayter converted and put his team ahead by four points.

However the game was not over, and Chiefs did not give up. Excellent running lines and strong carrying allowed the Chiefs back into Exmouth’s half. No.8 Alex Ford made the most of the territory when he dived over the line just before the final whistle, leaving the score 16-17 to Exeter. Josh Sussex then secured the victory by adding the extra two points with the conversion.

This game was a very tight and thrilling fixture. Both teams showed a high level of professional, entertaining and good-spirited rugby. These two teams will meet again later in the season, when title hopes will be decided and no doubt we will be in for another exciting spectacle.