Paignton Colts 11

Tavistock Colts 34

THIS was a tale of two halves as Tavistock ground out a vital away win on Monday. 

The visitors took an early lead as Dom Connor broke through to score after some good phased play.  However, due to a lack of concentration, among the Tavistock backs, Paignton were back on level terms with an immediate response.  Tavistock tried hard to build some momentum and, after a prolonged period of pressure, were again back in front thanks to Josh Langton's powerful run. Paignton demonstrated great commitment and led at half time thanks to two penalties, each due to offsides from the visitors.  It was the first time that Tavistock had trailed at half time since the start of January and that triggered a positive second half response. 

Tavistock were far more committed after the interval, winning most of the loose ball and phasing really well.  Their renewed vigour was soon rewarded when Luke Northmore was sent clear after some smart play by the backs.  Tavistock worked the ball with speed and accuracy and Glen Fuller added to the score after good handling in the back line.  Tavistock were much in control and it was a matter of how much they wanted the bonus point.  The answer became clear when Kier Murphy superbly set up Will Carter to score in the corner and the final try was added by Sam Northmore.  Kier Murphy added two second half conversions.

Tavistock, with two away games remaining, still have the chance of honours at the end of the season.

Tavistock Colts 38

Crediton Colts 8

HAVING not played in the league for a number of weeks Tavistock Colts had to dig deep to earn the points and extend their winning streak in the league to six wins on the run. 

Early in the first half Tavistock capitalised on a mistake in the Crediton lineout for Martin Budden to break through and score.  Crediton responded with a penalty kick, but, it was not long before Tavistock scored again, this time with an excellent move being finished off by Ryan Skews.  Tavistock were struggling to find any real rhythm and consistency in their game, particularly with Crediton competing well in the lineout and ruck. But Tavistock did not give up and were rewarded for their persistence when George Glover added a further try before half time. Dave Milligan converted each try. 

In the second half Tavistock began to play more flowing rugby. They started to dominate in the loose and their backs handled much better.  With the forwards securing good ball, it was inevitable that Tavistock would extend their lead. The first try came after Will Slater broke through to score on his debut, and Glen Fuller added the final two tries after twice finishing off some good backs' play to outpace his opposite number. 

Taylor Kingham added a further conversion before Crediton scored a late consolation try.