Paignton 5 - 22 Exmouth

Exmouth were back on winning ways with a dominant forwards display that was better than Paignton in every department. However the early play was in Paignton’s favour who attacked when they collected the kick off and scythed through a series of poor tackle attempts.

Exmouth weathered the storm and were the first to score with a try from Paul Bright who used his superior speed to touch down under the posts – Tom Steer converted.

The forwards continued to win the ball from rucks, mauls and the scrum whether they had the put in or not! Richard Keay returned to the side after a long lay off and immediately upped the tempo bringing the forwards with him and both him and the other prop Ben Holloway had a number of surging powerful runs. Richard was to be rewarded later with a try in the first half.

Lewis Turner, playing at Number 8 had a very good game and was rewarded with a try at the end of the 1st half but the real key to Exmouth’s turn around of fortunes was their strength in the tackles and going forward. Both Flankers, Jono Kamester and Seb Opie played well and restricted the play of the opposing forwards, thereby stopping the backs getting much of a look in.

It is difficult to find a lot of fault as all players played well – the subs were rewarded with some play although it is always disappointing for them to accept that they have to sit out for so much of the game and they should be thanked for their patience.

Exmouth were blessed with 21 players turning up for the game and a true testament to the strength they have the likes of Alfie Valentine were on the subs bench to start with – it was good to see him on the field with his great turn of speed.

The backs were not to be outdone and Tom Taylor at Fullback ensured we were never in too much danger. Simon Wade and Ed Wright had a mainly quiet time on the wing but when the ball did get that far they both showed some good turn of speed and ability. Ed’s patience was rewarded when he came into the forwards to cover for Seb Opie at Flanker – a position he relishes.

Paignton kept going to the last and in the second half were rewarded with an unconverted try but not to be out done Exmouth ran over with their fourth when Paul got a brace.

The Man of the Match was decided by committee of two parents/assistants who decided to split it between Lewis for his strong running and good control at number 8 and Seb Opie for constantly putting in big tackles and getting to the opposition quickly, especially after dislocating his collar bone three weeks ago.

The whole game was played in great spirit and was a testament to the way the game should be played.