Western Counties West
Newton Abbot 36
Okehampton 18
DESPITE a poor result against the league leaders, the Okes at least gave a brave and gutsy performance.
Both sides gave everything and nobody took a backward step. It produced an exciting and bruising spectacle, which was well refereed.
The first half delivered a scoring spree which ended 18-15 in Okes' favour. Tries were by Bickle and Vick and the very reliable Searle kicked five penalties and a conversion.
From the restart Newton Abbot put Okes under siege for 20 minutes and scored 16 points.
Despite this reversal the young Okes pack, well led by Thomas, tore into the home side for the last 10 and put them under the cosh. The home side showed why they are top with a fine rearguard defensive effort.
Despite Okes going close and being held up, the leaders put their bodies on the line and refused to buckle. As always in these circumstances Newton Abbot broke out of defence and scored in the corner to end the game.
Newton Abbot knew they had been pushed all the way and credit must be given to the attitude and commitment of the Okes team. They will need to learn to be more clinical and must follow the example of the home pack on how to provide options for the outsides.
Training is on Tuesdays and Thursday for all players whatever your side is.