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1st XV v Exeter University

1st XV v Exeter University

Ian Harris18 Sep 2018 - 16:49
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https://www.exmouthrugby.co.uk

Great performance seals victory in thriller.

With EURFC sitting second in the early season table, one of only 3 unbeaten teams in the South West Premier League, this game was going to be a cracker. The Cockles on the back of a disappointing defeat the previous week were well aware of the danger that the students would pose around the field. Boy did this game deliver. Tom Whelan had an early penalty shot after a couple of minutes but drifted wide in the blustery, sunny conditions however it was EURFC who scored first on 9 minutes. It was clear that this match up was going to be fast and furious by nature, Dave Bargent scored next with Whelan conversion 5-7. Another University try and a Whelan penalty on 26 minutes brought the score to 10-10. Already the lead had changed hands 3 times. The Cockles were starting to take control of the game and with Sam Richardson going over on 31 minutes, another conversion from the boot of Whelan, Exmouth were working hard to half time at 17-10. EURFC lost a front row to a yellow so with the numerical advantage it seemed that Exmouth would take control. It was unfortunate that the same happened to Exmouth, both down to 14 men at the break.

What happened in the half-time break? Not sure however the Cockles blasted two scores in 12 minutes from Jack Downie, who cut in from the left and debutant Sam Whitehead finished off a coast to coast, both converted by Whelan. 31-10 you could be forgiven if you thought this game was done. 2 strikes, both converted from the students brought them right back in the game 31-24. 20 minutes gone in the second half, this game was far from over. Defence wins games, some might say. After the attacking spell from both teams it was then a test of who could hold their nerve. The Cockles suffered another sin bin on 30 minutes to virtually see out the game with 14 men. Well-constructed play form both teams kept the audience entertained and it was the University who exerted the pressure to find a score to force a potential draw. EURFC battered Exmouth line but were denied the opportunity to go over. The closing stages were heart wrenching times for the large crowd who watched the Cockles put in a no fear, confident and ultimately, winning performance. The squad will take this outing in to training this week to prepare for the visit of Weston-super-Mare on Saturday.

The final act of the day went to the ladies from ERFC Juniors who presented scrum-half Matt Ryan with Man of the Match.

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