Lockie Cup semi-final
Tavistock 6
Plymouth Civil Service 8
TAVISTOCK suffered a bitter disappointment on Saturday when this narrow loss put them out of the cup.
The result was all the more poignant as Tavistock beat the same team by seven points in a league game last week.
After last week's game both sides knew it would be a hard and closely fought fixture. That is exactly what it was; both teams playing for the only silverware they had a chance of acquiring this season.
Ironically, Civil had little possession, but quick handling and an overlap allowed a winger's try in the first quarter.
Tavistock seemed to lack cohesion in the opening minutes and were slow to settle. Once a pattern was established, however Civil had a lead to defend, and this they did with utter determination.
Although Tavistock were dominant in every aspect, they were unable to convert possession to points. Some forced errors gave fly-half Adam Bridgewater the chance to put some points on the board for Tavistock but, despite some incredibly close calls, the moorlanders were unable to cross the Civil try line.
The only area of Tavistock's play in which they failed to assert themselves was the lineout. Usually a strong aspect of Tavistock's games, they seemed to have problems securing any ball towards the second half.
On a brighter side, the Tavistock support and handling in open play was competent, the backs putting together some good moves.
A jaw injury to Mark Baker saw the first team debut of James Cailes who came on to have an impressive half with a couple of powerful runs.
The wings Simon Beatty and Sean Buttell were heavily involved in defence and attack, and hooker Adrian Baker was ubiquitous throughout.
l If anyone is interested in joining Tavistock RFC they are welcome to join at training at the club at 7pm Tuesdays and Thursdays, or may phone Paul Greenhill, club captain, on 01822 616792.