Exmouth U16 v Kingsbridge U16

When Exmouth U16s met Kingsbridge for the third time this season a close game was expected as each side had one win under their belt.

Starting with the wind at their backs the Cockles had the lion’s share of the territory in the first half but could not get comfortably away from their guests whose pack battled into the wind with many short drives. The first Exmouth score was an Ottoway penalty shortly followed by a Sylvester try, turning on the afterburners from centre. Schauffler also showed great pace, clattering through some half-hearted defenders and scoring near the posts to give Exmouth a clear half-time lead.

A clever follow up and clean catch from a Fulthorpe box kick saw Ottoway get behind the King’s defence on their 10 meter line and win the dash to the corner for the first score of the second half. But, with the wind at their back, the team from High House came right back into the game. They never took the lead but a sustained period of pressure and effort was rewarded with three converted tries which reminded the hosts of how well matched these sides are.

Exmouth’s pack continued to secure first phase ball and a share of turnovers and this allowed the home side to regularly move the play upfield into the wind. Sylvester’s second try, a short drive from Taylor-Adey and a Cooke penalty gave Exmouth the breathing space they probably deserved in this entertaining and competitive match and the final score (including 2 Exmouth conversions) was 35-21.

Coach Justice was pleased with the effort from all his players, earning a league win against quality opposition. “The boys were super with many smashing performances” he gushed but singled out Urmston and Fulthorpe for particular praise as his Men of the Match.