After an enforced week off from league action the Cockles were in no mood to mess around. This eagerly awaited clash with local rivals Brixham did not fail to entertain. The Fishermen always bring a strong game and despite their familiarity, there is always an air of uncertainty.

We had to make some squad changes before kick-off with scrum half Matty Ryan unwell, Sam Whitehead moved off the bench to start the game, with Steve Pape coming in to fill the space.

All our bench were used within 20 minutes due to the ferocity of the game. The Cockles moved our eighteen players around the positions to create a superb performance claiming a try bonus point just before half time, 48-19 win. Brixham did have their moments although were gifted two of their tries from two mistakes. Matt Crosscombe and Ed Goodman the beneficiaries. Jason Capaldi added a good 3rd try in the second half and two conversions from Joel Ashworth completed Brixham scoring.

Overall team performance from the Cockles really got the large crowd purring. Jake Inglis and Toby Papp scored the first of 7 tries. On 23 minutes George Meadows hit a sweet drop goal (don’t see many of those). Jake ran in his second and Steve Pape scored the first of his brace, Meads converted 2 of the 4 tries. 27-7 at Half Time.

Steve, Lewis Geran and Ben Hawley added tries after the break, Meads converted one and Sam hit two more. Overall, the game delivered quick hands, quicker feet and great defence. The set piece didn’t move, the lineout was consistent, both combined, a great platform to play running rugby.

This was a squad performance that showed maturity, great game management and exciting passages of play. The coaching team will still have identified some minor niggles to iron out. The Cockles first team squad are by no means a finished article.

Saturday 30th October we travel to Camborne, always a tough run out in Cornwall. Currently in 3rd place in South West Premier league with Exeter University and Hornets still unbeaten.