Throughout the game either side could have nicked the win although Exmouth should have had the match safe by half time.

 

Crediton chose to play up the slope in the first half and started the game confidently.  While both sides got to grips with the new laws it was Crediton that capitalised on an Exmouth infringement converting the penalty awarded.

 

The remainder of the first half was controlled by a promising Exmouth side who kept the ball live at all opportunities - although at times living dangerously with some loose offloads.

 

A welcome return by Lloyd Murrin saw him break through the Crediton line and only excellent covering by their defence - and some poor handling prevented Exmouth crossing on several occasions.

 

Up front Exmouth controlled the set pieces with good control and direction by Sam Bull and Joe Parkin.  This partnership continues to flourish and provides a confidence boost for both forwards and backs. The Exmouth back row dominated proceedings with the limited possession Crediton enjoyed quickly cancelled out by exceptional tackling from Ben Waistell and Matt Kain.

 

Shaun Fayter provided a calming influence at no 10.  When things didn't  go quite to plan his composure and line kicking eased the pressure.  On several occasions he converted defence into attack with some lengthy and precise kicks - that must have taken the heart out of this committed Crediton team.  It was Shaun that levelled the score with a well taken, seemingly effortless drop-goal.

 

With the half-time score 3-3 Exmouth could have been a bit concerned having to play up the slope and having missed so many chances to make the game safe in the first half.  Crediton always looked threatening but just couldn't find that little extra that would convert the limited possession in to points.

 

Exmouth started the second half with the same level of commitment and the back line continue to fly at the Crediton defence but again a combination of cover tackling and unforced errors prevented any further score until the end of the third-quarter.  A period of controlled "pick and go" by the Exmouth forwards saw Sam Bull collect the ball and crash over for an unconverted try.  Kev Rodwell joined the fray in the second half and saw plenty of action with his trademark strong straight running.  Dan McLeod had another fine game and it was great to see all the first year colts blending into this well drilled team.

 

Exmouth continued to dominate but could not add to their score.  This seemed to spur on Crediton and launched a barrage of their own within the last 10 minutes coming close.  Sound collection of kicks by Sam Reid cleared the lines and keep the Exmouth line intact and eventual winners by 8-3.

 

Both sides made this a great spectacle and referee Richard Pryor kept the game flowing, although making time to explain and help these youngsters get to grips with the ELV's.

 

Next week Exmouth will be entertaining Sidmouth Colts at the Imperial Ground - 2.15pm kick-off.

Exmouth have a very positive team-work ethic and have started to combine enthusiasm with skill to produce some exciting open rugby.  Those that make the effort will not be disappointed.