1st XV v Launceston RFC

What could the Cockles expect at the home of Cornish All Blacks? The travelling faithful certainly did not expect 12 tries and 8 conversions, a blistering performance and smiles all round from Exmouth.

With stunning regularity from 4 minutes in to the game, Exmouth were on the front foot. Within 9 minutes Matty Ryan had completed his hat-trick and George Meadows had converted all 3 for a 21-0 start. With a final score 76-24, The Cockles went on to score a few more. 6 tries from Matty Ryan, 2 each from Lewis Geran, Nick Headley and Dave Bargent. A total 8 conversions kicked from the boot of George Meadows. In fact their home side match announcer did comment a crumb of comfort when Meads finally missed one. This was a master class in team performance, numbers 1 to 18. Prop Gareth Walker came off the bench for his 1st team debut, every player interchange kept the team consistent. A real plus this season in the first two games. Our forwards dominated set pieces scrum, line-out, ruck and maul. The hot stepping backs cut holes through the poor Launceston defence. At 49-17 at half time, the hosts did score 3 tries of their own, Reuben Edwards, Martin Kneebone and Gary Gynn with one conversion from Glenn Coles.

The second 40 minutes was not a frenetic, however points did come after well worked plays from The Cockles. 5 tries in total in this half. Coach Pez will look at a few missed opportunities and how the defence was breached for Cornish All Blacks to get their bonus point 4th try from Reuben Edwards, converted by Coles. They did deserve some reward for their commitment to the cause in front of their home crowd. Having shipped 54 points the week before, a tough start for indeed for CABs. They will bounce back.

The Exmouth performance was assured and generally accurate, each week comes a new test. The Cockles will not sit on their laurels with this win. They will undoubtedly head back to the training pitch to work on improvements. Still, this was a confident show that brought its reward for players, support team and club members. 5 league points from an away fixture is worth travelling for.

Next up, early favourites Maidenhead make the trip to the Imperial Ground. This could be a humdinger if all goes to plan.

We look forward to seeing you all. #BEPARTOFIT