This was a hotly anticipated top of the Devon Merit Table 1 clash. Likely, although not conclusive, the winner would stay in pole position for the title. Okehampton have been the form team all season, although the Cockles reserves had drawn 12-12 on the away leg. The visitors however were good value for their league position and scored two converted tries very quickly, 0-14. After a couple of defensive lapses the home side tightened their line and put in plenty of big stops. The home side did eventually breaking through to score two tries of their own, one converted, 12-14 at half time.

The start of the second half went the way of the Cockles pack from a catch and drive, the youngsters finally taking the lead 17-14. At this point the home crowd expected the boys to push on but it was Okehampton who capitalised on an increasing penalty count. First they scored a try, converted 17-21. Oke knew that Exmouth would fight back and were relieved when a penalty chance came their way to increase their lead 17-24. Tries from Jack Downie, Jake Inglis, Ross Matthews and a conversion from Sam Fulthorpe completed the Exmouth points tally. Despite heroic effort, Exmouth attack was thwarted time and again. Seeking a score that would tie the game again they came up short. With a slightly disjointed pack, through game time injury, The Cockles possibly should have stretched the Okehampton defence, indeed Jack Downie, voted Man of the Match, cut through several times but could not find the final link to grab a share of the game. Barnstaple 2nd XV next week will provide an equally tough outing for the boys.