Junior KO Cup second round

Exeter Saracens 22

North Tawton 3

NORTH Tawton have seen a resurgence of late and started the season well. This comeback is in no small measure due to coach Danny North and club captain John Stone, who have combined well to instil belief and spirit into the side.

So it was only to be expected that it was North Tawton who settled first. Steadied by a Joe Fewings penalty in the first minute, they took control up front and put the home side, who play a division above them, under all sorts of difficulties.

Saracens did attack well in the three quarters but North Tawton's defence held fast with first centre Simon Metcalf leading the way against his old club.

North Tawton had two more attempts from penalties but failed to convert and despite putting pressure on the Saracens' line were unfortunate to concede a penalty which Saracens converted on the stroke of half-time, to leave the score at the interval 3-3.

North Tawton looked good for a surprise result but it was not to be. Saracens came back with determination and despite excellent defence by forwards and backs alike a five yard penalty saw them spin the ball wide to score in the corner for a converted try.

Pressure from Saracens was pinning North Tawton in their own half and despite a substitution when Danny North came on for Paul Taylor it was not long before they punched a hole down the middle for a well deserved try by their outside half to lead 17-3.

Then the game, which had been simmering below the surface for a long time, suddenly exploded in a free for all. It was difficult to see who and why but one player from each side was red carded. Unfortunately for North Tawton it was their skipper John Stone and after his dismissal they found it difficult to regroup.

Saracens took advantage and scored a try in the forwards. But it was typical of North Tawton's performance that they passed the Saracens' line for the last 10 minutes right up until the final whistle.

l North Tawton are at home to South Molton this Saturday, kick off 3pm. all support welcome.