Western Counties

Okehampton 1st XV . . . . . . . . 20

Exmouth 1st XV . . . . . . . . . . . .10

OKEHAMPTON proved they were back on track with an emphatic win over high-flyers and second in the league, Exmouth.

A focused approach and a renewed desire always to win at home saw them start the match well, controlling all phases of play and aggressive defence evidenced by Exmouth's inability to cross the gainline.

Forays into the other half saw Arnie Searle capitalise on sustained pressure and slot a timely drop goal.

A further penalty saw Okehampton enter the second half 6-0 up with the advantage of slope and wind to follow.

Having learned valuable lessons from the Tiverton match, Okehampton forced home their advantage this time and took all opportunities to score.

Rob Jordan at number 8 drove over from a five metre scrum, converted by Searle.

A gift try was then handed to Exmouth during a brief lapse of concentration. This was against the run of play and Okehampton quickly regained control, putting the opposition under immense pressure in their own 22.

Graham Sage read a pass perfectly to intercept and stroll over under the posts. The try was again converted and Okehampton had a comfortable cushion with ten minutes to play.

An unfortunate leg injury to Adam Curtis necessitated a substitution and with David Mugliston down with cramp Exmouth countered well, threw the ball wide and picked up a consolation try.

The remaining minutes were played out intelligently with the ball kept firmly in the opponents' 22 by David Bickle and Arnie Searle. Final score 20-10.