1st Team v Okehampton

A try from Gaz Walker after 3 minutes kickstarted The Cockles into the South West Premier league 2021-22. The first conversion followed from George Meadows, 7-0 to Exmouth.

A keenly anticipated match up, following their previous encounters, the large crowd were looking forward to watch some local live action rugby. They were definitely entertained.

On 15 minutes, a worldie try from George Mears, who started his run from inside his own 22, weaving through several defenders, increased the lead to 12-0, Meads missed the extras. Seven minutes later Nick Headley claimed the next try, the conversion followed for 19-0. Okehampton did work hard for territory and possession and finally got some reward on 28 minutes with a penalty from Kieran Lee, 19-3. Exmouth forwards were making life difficult for the visitors, front row Walker, Will Ridout & debutant Fin Keywood ensured a pretty solid anchor. After half an hour Connor O’Shaughnessy delivered the bonus point try, Meads conversion, 26-3. Right on half time Okey did grab their second penalty, 26-6 at the break.

Exmouth looked lively in to the second half and will be mindful of a little rust and penalty count. A couple of ‘comedy gold moments’ did cost The Cockles certain tries. A duo won’t be keen on watching the post-match playback at training. However, it was a great second half for Walker and Mears who both bagged their brace with scores on 63 and 70 minutes respectively, both converted by Meads, 40-6.

Forwards Jack Fahy, James Harris, Max Keen, Dave Bargent, Jack Madge & Steve Pape worked hard to give the qucik lads Lewis Geran, Jake Inglis, Henry Goldson and Tom Steer room to play. Matty Ryan at scrum half delivered quick ball all afternoon, to help the lads to 6 tries.

Early days, Exmouth sit second in the league after the first outing. There are still plenty of miles to travel and the squad make their first away trip of the season on Saturday 11th September to Launceston against Cornish All Blacks.