Prior to kick-off and again at half-time another excellent Imperial ground turn out was entertained by the Cockles under-7s displaying their tag rugby skills.

Chris Bentley picked up an injury before the start and player-coach St Lowe was added to the squad.

Exmouth started brightly, Gary Hooper making a fine break before being bundled into touch and goal. Hornets responded well and through powerful winger Jermaine Jones scored the opening try, he then converted to give his side a seven-point lead.

Exmouth surged back led by Mark Wathes in midfield who proved a handful for the visitors and across the pitch the Cockles looked composed with the ball in hand.

Ollie Rice got the Cockles first try after several phases of play stretched the visitors defence, but the George Meadows conversion, against the wind, bounced back off the upright.