Tavistock 1st XV 38
Marjons 7
TAVISTOCK are far from being contenders for promotion in the league this season, but came one step nearer to success in the Lockie Cup over the weekend.
University sides are an unknown quantity to local league sides and can often pose a threat with individual talent and the benefit of youth.
Tavistock, sponsored by South West Acrylics, proved the benefit of experience and commitment, though, in a game where the students were comprehensively outclassed.
Marjons had a strong start, passing the ball well and executing some impressive moves in the backs. A determined wall of Tavistock men quickly repelled the initial breach, and the forwards soon imposed their will on the game.
A lack of discipline among the Marjons players resulted in a tap penalty being quickly taken by skipper Paul Greenhill. Showing great intuition, Greenhill ran unopposed through the dissenting university players to score between the posts.
Tavistock's sniper, Martin Credicott, converted with ease and the floodgates were open.
It was Greenhill, characteristically leading from the front, who notched Tavistock's second try. Some strong runs from the Tavistock forwards resulted in a fine break from the pacy back-row player, and another score between the posts.
Tavistock continued to dominate in the second half. Second row Andy Hunt scored a push-over try almost immediately after the re-start and prop Jim Jefferies claimed another driving try soon after.
Tavistock's driving mauls proved too much for Marjons and the play was never far from the student's line.
Matt Cole moved from number 8 to swap with Chris Greatrex in the centre, but an interception by the Marjons' winger saw them run in their only score.
Tavistock's final try seemed certain to be scored by winger Sean Buttell, but full back Paul Allen, showed a surprising injection of pace to intercept the pass and dive dramatically over the line.
This was a fine display from Tavistock and credit must go to the forwards for an outstanding effort.
Prop Steve Langdon had an exemplary first half displaying impressive physical strength and commitment. His tactical replacement, Rob Monk was worthy of his predecessor, working hard in the loose to secure ball possession.
Man of the match undoubtedly goes to Credicott, who successfully kicked every one of his conversions and penalty attempts from some testing angles.
l If anyone is interested in joining Tavistock RFC they are welcome to join at training at the club at 7pm Tuesdays and Thursdays, or phone Paul Greenhill, captain, on 01822 616792.