Okehampton secs 3
Exmouth secs 19
OKES' seconds difficult start to the season continued with their second fixture against undefeated Exmouth.
Indeed the visitors came out the blocks at a furious rate and had scored two converted tries within the first 15 minutes.
Their side comprised a sizeable yet mobile pack with a lively number nine who was a thorn in the Okes' side all afternoon.
After their unfortunate start the home side, playing down the slope but into a stiff breeze, started to get to grips with their opponents.
Peter Herod-Taylor was playing well in the centre, combining forceful and effective defence with some probing runs into the heart of the Exmouth defence. His attacking prowess was matched by young Callum Ausden whose speed and strength asked questions of the visitors defence whenever he was given the opportunity.
As Okes' pack gradually began to wear down some of Exmouth's enthusiasm, they were able to win a penalty which full-back Gary Sizmur was able to convert to make the score 14-3 at half time.
At the start of the second period the visitors scored an unconverted try which effectively made the game safe but this was the cue for Okehampton to play the majority of the half in opposition territory. However, some of the cutting edge had been lost and despite fly-half Barry Down making good use of the wind they were unable to breach the Exmouth defence — despite two sin-binnings in quick succession.
It was a stubborn performance from the Okes against a very useful outfit which bodes well for the rest of the campaign.