In fairness to the south Bristol side, they had the better of the early exchanges, belying their lowly league status. They were strong in attack and certainly challenged the home side defence. Despite a George Meadows penalty on three minutes, with early try from Lewis Geran, the only other scoring in twenty five minutes was from the visitors, through a Joe Cowell try, conversion by George Chapman, 8-7. From that point to half-time the game swung in favour of the COCKLES, further tries from Dave Bargent, with second for Lewis & two Meads conversions took Exmouth to 22-7 at the break. In reality, a couple of missed opportunities, the lead could have been more. There was plenty to admire from both teams.

With scrum and lineout dominant, a feature of early season play, the COCKLES turned on the style from the get-go. Fin Marks started the try scoring straight from the restart, the first of a brace for him, a Charlie Gibbings rumbling hat trick with additional tries from Jake Inglis & Oli Cave. Meads struck four more conversions. The game was beyond Chew Valley, further disruption unused when they had used up their front row including replacements, the scrum went uncontested, taking a biting edge from the COCKLES game play. That said, all the tries scored showed pace on and off the ball, with great hands and team work to get in to scoring position. Also, a couple of moments of individual brilliance from try scorers. Chew did get a consolation try from Dean Brooker, Chapman converting, final score 65-14.

COCKLES showed their strength in depth with great performances throughout the team. Bobby Pond made his 1st TEAM debut off the bench, Joe Harris making his first start of the season showed up well around the field. Lewis Tose slotted in at scrum half & Brad Skinner returned to action after a few weeks out. Match Day sponsor Baines & Co awarded the Man of the Match accolade to Fin Marks, presented by Mike & Bongo Baines. We hope you and your guests had a fun day out with us. Well deserved for Fin, although a three try blast from Gibbo was a sight to behold.

Saturday 26th October, the squad make the trip to St Austell RFC. The COCKLES coaching team & players will look to fine tune and set the squad ready for a visit Cornwall.
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COCKLES QUINS, NOMADS & COLTS all had a tough time on the road. All sides lost out to stronger opposition, all the lads put in a big shift away from home. Devonport Services 2nd XV, Crediton 3rd Team & Torquay respectively , took the win. A big shout out to Crediton for the loan of a few players to get the game on.

Next up, on Saturday 26th October, QUINS at home to Tamar Saracens & NOMADS travel to Tiverton 3rd XV.

EXMOUTH RUGBY WOMEN are yet to start their season home & away, their first two games cancelled due to extreme weather & waterlogged pitch. Both hopefully to be rearranged through the season.

Next game due on 10th November with a trip to Brixham Sirens.

Thank you for all your support.

#COCKLES