COCKLES secured their 25-18 win with a solid performance against well-known rivals Ivybridge. In fact, so well known that the visitors threw everything at the COCKLES in attack and defence. They knew where our scoring threats might come from. Ivybridge started brightly however we turned defence in to attack for Nick Headley to score the first try, some kick chase with neat dribbling skills virtually the length of the field. During the half further tries for Robbie Weeks and George Mears with two conversions from George Meadows gave Exmouth the lead at half time, 19-11. Two penalties from Matt Grieveson, then a late try from Owen Garner. Exmouth a man down in the forwards at the end and beginning of the half.
It was that technical yellow card for Steve Pape before the break did assist Ivybridge get back into the game with a second catch and drive try from Owen Garner, Grieveson extras, 19-18. The second forty was an arm wrestle that looked to be swinging the way of Ivybridge until very late. The pressure was coming from our pack with two successful penalties from Meads pushed the score to 25-18. Overall, this was a mixed outing of combative rugby. Strong defence from both sides stopped any further scores, both sides had mistakes that were not so costly, it was the determination of the COCKLES to battle for the home win. A double home and away.
Saturday 18th March see the culmination of the League season against resurgent visitors Okehampton. This rearranged league fixture will also double up as a Devon Cup pool game as the calendar is a little tight for two separate fixtures. There are still two further Devon Cup pool matches to come against Newton Abbot (Away) on 25th March and Devonport Services (Home) on 1st April. Then semi finals to come. Please join the COCKLES for plenty of match day action and hospitality.
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COCKLES QUINS had a cracker of an afternoon in the shadow of the Dartmoor, winning 41-22 in Ivybridge. The five try victory collected a bonus point win. Finding their mojo, the lads were stronger in every department on the artificial surface. Ethan Langson Justice (2), Juls Lucas, James Goss & Sam Whitehead scored tries, Sam also kicked 16 points. The squad still have four games to play following recent cancellations, next up on Saturday 18th March, home to league leaders Tavistock 1st Team at 2.15 pm.
At home COCKLES NOMADS lost out to a lively Ilfracombe 1st Team, 33-0. Both team looked on point as Ilfracombe had forgotten their kit and had to borrow a set of Exmouth shirts for the occasion. They also had to make a pit stop in Exeter to buy shorts and socks. Played with great enthusiasm the game was a lot closer than the score suggests.