Wadebridge 21 - 18 Exmouth

Using the well hackneyed football vernacular "this was a game of two halves".

An early start with a tiresome journey over the Cornish Border was always going to be have an impact on this young Exmouth side. There were also some noticeable absentees, again because of the early start and work commitments, but were still able to travel with a squad of 26.

The older and stronger Wadebridge team started with a whirlwind and were quickly on the score sheet with a converted try. Exmouth seemed to be "still on the bus" and had to endure wave after wave of assaults on their line. Once again the determination of this young side shone through with everyone playing a part in breaking down the Wadebridge attacks.

On one of the rare first half excursions into Wadebridge territory Exmouth were awarded a penalty - which Adam Morris dutifully converted. But the Wadebridge juggernaut trundled on and they scored two further tries taking the score to 21-3.

As half time approached you could see that Exmouth were getting to grips with their opponents and started to make plays of their own. The half back pairing of John Parkin and Adam Morris is looking good and when teaming up with Shaun Fayter there were some exciting breaks and Exmouth were able to cross over just before half time to reduce the deficit to 13 points. John Parkin was the try scorer.

Both teams agreed to have rolling subs and this added to the excitement during the second half. It was like old time seeing Lee Loveridge return after injury. After several breaks that went unrewarded he finally broke through to score an unconverted try. It would be wrong to suggest that Exmouth were in control. This was a useful Wadebridge side but Exmouth were growing in confidence. Exmouth were still having to commit numbers to hold up the forwards but their were now competing in the set pieces and Sam Bull had greater control of the lineout in the second half.

Around the field Harry Cozens again excelled and appeared to be ever present, making tackles and setting up good ball. The pressure continued and a break on the left by Lloyd Murrin saw the ball moved swiftly across the line for Adam Morris to score wide out, and only narrowly missing the conversion.

An over enthusiastic tackle saw Wadebridge reduced to 14 players but rather than demoralise this renewed their commitment and were able to prevent Exmouth crossing for the score they deserved - with both sets of supporters agreeing a draw would have been a good result from such an entertaining game.

This was a team performance, especially in the second half - where so many made an impact on this game. The man of the match was tough with three standing out from the others, John Parkin, Adam Morris and Shaun Fayter. The popular choice - nominated by both sides - was Shaun Fayter who made so many half breaks with composure and strength to keep the ball alive and create further pressure.

Although disappointed at not returning from Cornwall with the spoils this was another important lesson learnt by the younger players and as their confidence grows will become a formidable force as the season progresses.