Exmouth U11s put on a good show in Round Robin contest! Exmouth 7 v Dursley 7 and Saracens 21 v Exmouth 7

The Young Cockles first match was against visiting Gloucestershire team, Dursley. With both teams determined and closely matched it was a fast moving game that saw the score stand at 7 all by half time. Finn Musgrove having taken responsibility for the try which was deftly converted against an opposing wind by Liam Daniels. The U11s Exmouth squad of 13 was unfortunately soon reduced to 12 when Ryan Langston remained off pitch after two successive heavy tackles left him unable to continue.
Despite excitement aplenty; strong tackles, and much ground won and lost, the second half failed to deliver further points and the match finished on a just division of the spoils on the half time score!
The next match saw a fresh Saracens squad take on the Exmouth lads.
Again the play was a treat to watch with serious resolve from both sides.
Exmouth took the lead after several minutes when Benji Horn carried the ball some distance to cross the line. The try was again neatly converted by Liam Daniels, this time with the wind on his side. But the Saracens were a strong squad and the Cockles were starting to tire. Just before the half time whistle a nimble footed Saracen broke through the Exmouth defence and powered ahead of the field to make a clean try and bring the score level.
The second half saw the Saracens take, and then extend the lead, with two converted tries. The tough windy conditions, two consecutive games and a lack of substitutes, took its toll on the Exmouth lads. Despite some purposeful play, they lost their momentum and sharpness, and minor errors allowed the Saracens to grab the opportunities offered them. A disappointing final score could not belittle a great effort and game from both teams, several of our players playing well out of their usual positions today.
Man of the Match went to Scott Atcheson who was one to step into a new position. The role of Full Back clearly suited him as he rose to the occasion, notably taking some clean catches from long balls and making up considerable ground having done so. Well played Scott!
The award for Outstanding Effort went to Jory Salter for a particularly outstanding tackle and clearly upping his game on direction of coach Taff! Great effort Jory!
Another entertaining outing from the Under 11s and a welcome invitation from the visiting Gloucestershire side for a rematch should we be in their territory. The Dursley pennant and ball were a welcome addition to the squad’s souvenir collection.