Landscape League final
Okehampton U16s 17
Exeter Saracens U16s 25
PLAYED at Crediton RFC Okehampton started the final strongly with a sustained 15 minute romp in the Saracens 22. Abrams was denied a try as the ball was stripped from his grasp as he crossed the line.
The Saracens were impressive both in set piece and defended stoutly. In their first venture into the Okes' 22 they charged down a clearance kick and luck saw the ball bounce their way for a try. Shortly after a 35 metre penalty gave them an 8- 0 lead.
The Okes picked up the gauntlet with their half backs Johns and Vincent distributing ball well to gain good field position and the pack driving into the Saracens 22. After a drive from Elliott, Gardner and Sam Cooper their hard work paid off allowing Hughes to get the try. Neither team could take control but both used the ball well with both close ball for the forwards and good use of the backs. Okehampton's back three of Stone, Burns and Ausden played superbly in both attack and defence.
After half time Okehampton flew into the opposition. Henry Cooper set Craig Dennis free on the charge with the centre hitting the line at pace and speeding to the line without a hand being placed on him. At 10- 8 to Okehampton a defensive lapse at the restart saw Saracens score a try to lead 13-10. Oke's back row of Courtier, White and Kirby took the ball deep into Saracens 22. Dennis scored his second try with Ausden converting giving Okes the lead again 17-13. Saracens then scored the try of the game starting with a probing run from their 22 by their impressive scrum half and finishing with a converted try. Okes tried to up the tempo with substitutes Wilkins, Andrews, Williams, Ewen, Seccombe and Fogerty but despite their valiant efforts Saracens stole a final try to win 25-17.