Exeter Saracens U16s 7

Okehampton U16s 19

OKHAMPTON travelled to face Exeter Saracens and played up the slope and against a fierce wind in the first half.

They had to run the ball and strung together good phases with Brooks, Hutchins and Clarke all looking dangerous out wide. The forwards worked well, moving the ball upfield, only to lose possession and have it returned to their 22 due to long Saracens clearances.

Okehampton defended stoutly with the back row of Cox, Beardon and Lawrence putting in the tackles to hold the home side to one converted try at the break.

In the second half Okehampton used the wind well to dominate field position. Searle found West at the front of the lineout and gave good ball to Cox and Turner as strike runners.

After 15 minutes Okehampton realised that spinning quick ball wide was the key. This tactic gave Ian Brooks time and space to outflank the defence for an unconverted try in the corner.

Continued pressure paid off with scrum ball given blind to fly half Herrod-Taylor who cut inside for seven points.

Saracens came back but could not muster a score.

Five minutes from time quick ruck ball was again spun wide with Clarke putting Brooks in for another try. Herrod Taylor then slotted his second conversion.