Cup

Topsham 53

North Tawton 15

NORTH Tawton were already at risk with their lack of backs causing players' having to be placed out of position, and with Topsham's wide pitch and good set of well-drilled, fast backs, it was always going to be difficult for the visitors.

Despite their disappointing start with Topsham scoring a converted try after five minutes North Tawton still put in a good attempt to counter-attack. Strong defence from the forwards and powerful skilled tackling from flanker Dan Dennis gave North Tawton the opportunity to turn over the ball. Despite North Tawton playing good moves when in attack, poor decision making gave Topsham the opportunity to intercept or turn over the ball resulting in four home tries in the first half. From a North Tawton line-out within Topsham's 22 metre line resulted in a maul and the visiting forwards drove all the way to the try line with James Henshaw grounding it resulting in 26-5 at half time.

A better start from North Tawton's forwards in the second half resulted in a try by captain, number 8, Steve King.

North Tawton's determination kept this improved play going with good running from Steve King breaking Topsham's defence, and support from flanker Dave Gibbs.

Despite the score, North Tawton kept putting Topsham under pressure with powerful running from fly-half Keith Jones and Jack Phare at full-back. In the 75th minute North Tawton's team-work resulted in a good try from Steve King. However this was a disappointing performance from the visitors.