EXMOUTH COCKLES made the short trip to near neighbours Sidmouth on Saturday. Newly promoted to Regional 1 South West league, Sidmouth had the upper hand being at home on the opening day of the season. The lads in green included a few of our former players, Liam Hilliar, Dan Armstrong with Archie Cruze, as well as former Exeter Chiefs Phil Dollman & Shaun Malton.

Two teams who played regularly at senior level some 40 years ago, this was a juicy encounter to whet the appetite for both sets of spectators, with any neutral viewer. The rain came, this made conditions slippery for both teams, getting to reacquaint themselves. On nine minutes Oli Cave gave Exmouth the lead after an arcing run, converted by Lewis Tose on debut for the away side, 0-7. Five minutes later Tom Hodge scored for Sidmouth, 5-7. Both sides traded yellow cards, it was Sidmouth who took advantage with Shaun Malton going over, converted by Phil Dollman, 12-7 at the break. A scrappy first forty for the COCKLES.

Half time talks done, the new season rust started to break away, the COCKLES started to step up the intensity. Tose added a penalty, with a second try for Oli Cave, made the score 12-15. With scrum and lineout performing well, the forward pack added the next score, Will Ridout Broke free, converted by Tose, 12-25 on 76 minutes. There was still time for a couple of scores, first Lewis Geran sped away from the clutching Sidmouth defence, to add the four try bonus point. Shaun Malton added his second, right on time, converted by Dollman. Final score 19-30 to EXMOUTH.

A pleasing outcome for the COCKLES coaching team, also for the many travelling supporters. A little clunky in the first half, eased to a purr, during periods of the second half. Much to build on during the week in training.

Saturday 14th September brings a home encounter with Royal Wootton Bassett. Also promoted for this term, The COCKLES have previous experience with a young lively Wiltshire side. Kick Off at 2.30 pm. .
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COCKLES QUINS worked hard against a strong Torquay Athletic 1st Team. Losing out 7-43, a couple of the tries for the visitors coming late in the game with COCKLES down to 14 men. EXMOUTH points from a try from Joe Harris, converted by Chris Wright. A bright start, the team included a number of last season COLTS, with a couple of new lads joining the squad. Positive signs for the season to come.
COCKLES NOMADS travelled to Bideford RFC 2nd Team, losing out 67-7 on the road. COCKLES COLTS took a 21-5 win on the road versus Cullompton Colts. A strong start to their first stage League campaign for this season.

Saturday 14th September, QUINS make the short journey to Exeter Saracens 1st Team. NOMADS & COLTS are set to be at home against Exeter Saracens 2nd team and Bideford Colts respectively.

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