Tavistock 9

Honiton 15

AFTER a string of victories either side of Christmas, Tavistock lost to fourth place Cullompton last week. Honiton are currently placed third and Tavistock were well aware that more effort and application would be required if they are to regain their winning form.

The commitment of the Tavistock squad could not be doubted on the day. The defensive effort was superb and there were many impressive aspects of play in the loose.

Tavistock opened the scoring, when the reliable boot of fly-half Martin Credicott converted his first penalty.

Playing up the pitch, but with a strong wind at their backs, Tavistock took the game to Honiton, with Credicott kicking deep into their half. The Tavistock forwards, though, struggled to assert themselves properly in set scrums and the amount of ball possession soon went to Honiton's favour.

A Honiton scrum five yards from Tavistock's line resulted in a push-over try for the visitors and the conversion increased their lead.

Pressure from deep kicks and strong runs, though, kept Tavistock well in the game. Captain Paul Greenhill and Number 8 Matt Cole seemed ubiquitous throughout and scrum half Lee Greatrex made some penetrating runs. The pressure paid and Credicott revealed he has a huge bag of talent, slotting two more penalties in a difficult wind and putting the moorlanders 9-7 up at half-time.

Rather than use the wind, Honiton kept the ball to hand, keeping possession and reducing Tavistock's chance of securing their lead. A Tavistock error resulted in a Honiton penalty and they took the lead for a second time.

The Tavistock pack's problems continued in set pieces but they looked dangerous in rucks and rolling mauls. Honiton gave them little possession, though, and the majority of the second half saw Tavistock fiercely defending their line.

A gap eventually appeared in Tavistock's defence, and Honiton dived over for a final try. A converted penalty soon after put the game beyond Tavistock's reach.

Although Honiton have shown better progress in the league than Tavistock so far this season, this was a game Tavistock were capable of winning and some good results will be achieved if they continue to play with as much spirit but with a little more application at training.

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 may phone Paul Greenhill the club captain on 01822 616792.