North Tawton 7

Barnstaple III 11

IN this friendly match the weather conditions were as important as the rugby.

With a gale force wind blowing and the pitch sticky underfoot it was going to be difficult for both sides.

The conditions favoured Barnstaple?s heavier and experienced pack, who kept the ball tight in attack and defence. It was from a forward drive that wing forward Glen Baker put the visitors ahead..

North Tawton used this game to give as many players an outing as possible. Phil Whale came on for Joe Fewings and Steve Hann for Richard Lethbridge.

A good break by North Tawton?s Ross Lawerence saw the home side under pressure, with some bustling play by the lighter forwards.

But it was Barnstaple?s heavier players who broke out to score a Peter Allen try, again in the forwards, to leave the score at half-time at 0-10.

North Tawton, with the wind behind them, looked capable of scoring and getting the game back.

New centre Jeff Mills looked impressive. Robby Hollaway came on for wing forward Rob MacBain and prop Pete Bragg on for Danny Wonnacott.

North Tawton put a great deal of pressure on the Barnstaple defence which was splendid and did not crack.

Kevin Avery led the home side well but could not breach the visitors? tackling.

James Leaman came on for winger Ryan King and the pressure continued. When North Tawton did score it was to be the last move of the match.

It was left to veteran centre David Quick to get a well deserved consolation try.

Ross Lawerence converted to leave the final score 10-7 to Barnstaple.

North Tawton are home to Torrington II this Saturday, kick-off 2.30pm.