Exeter Chiefs 5 - 14 Exmouth

Exmouth followed last week’s win with a less convincing win but with no less effort. The Chiefs deservedly had the first say with their only score of the match after some unimpressive rugby from Exmouth who whilst they had some possession did not capitalise on it.

The match was always going to be physical and the forwards were equal in power and determination with even results at the set plays and the break downs, however, Exmouth gradually got back into the game and were rewarded with a try by Alfie Valentine who used his speed to run past the opposition leaving a difficult but not impossible conversion for Tom Steer, who duly added two points.

The second half saw some tense play from both sides with Alfie running in his second try under the posts leaving Tom with an easy conversion.

The forwards were not as dominant as the previous week but showed determination and heart with the second row combination of Alex Smith and Andrew Woodward working well together and both of them making their presence felt.

Exmouth moved the ball around to their wings on a number of occasions, as did Exeter, but the visitors made better use of the distribution, although at time their passing under pressure was suspect. Tom Skinner, on the wing, had his best game to date and was often first to a loose ball and freeing it up for a team mate to take forward. Even Dom Roberts, Exmouth Hooker, was inspired by the wingers to have a go at running down the line only to be caught by a Chief’s defender, much to both their relief!!

Ed Wright who started at Full Back was brought into the flanker’s position to his delight and showed that size does not matter and won ball at the line out and tackled well – as usual.

Man of the Match for Exmouth was not an easy choice but the decision came down in favour of Alex Smith for his commitment, effort levels and much improved performance.

Overall a very good match with both teams giving their all with a lot of physical play that never threatened to get out of hand.