Score: Okehampton 5, Bournemouth, 47.

League: South West Premier

A BRAVE effort from the Okes after four injuries in the first quarter.

Okes’ first ever trip to Bournemouth ended in defeat but the scoreline didn’t tell the full story.

The visitors lost four players to match-ending injuries in the first quarter.

Two departed in the opening five minutes. This forced Okes to play the majority of the match a man short.

Despite this the Okes had plenty of possession and territory throughout. The difference being the home side’s clinical knack of coming away with points whenever they entered the Okes twenty two.

To be fair, the Okes defence also contributed to the hosts gaining a four-try bonus point right on the interval.

The second forty was a more even affair. The Okes were unable to create clear line breaks as their attack became slightly too predictable.

The young Maroon and Ambers never stopped competing all over the pitch, though, and were finally rewarded with a last minute consolation try from number eight Saul Holliday to at least gain some reward for their considerable efforts.

Okes took a large travelling contingent who finally had something to cheer about as they enjoyed their weekend away.

There were also some positive signs from the Okes this week, as Brad Curtis and the returning Karl Pearce were both forceful in attack and defence after long spells out through injury.

The Okes set piece also functioned well considering those absent and the in game disruption.

Okes now look ahead to a home encounter with Brixham on Saturday, hoping that home comforts can help aide a return to winning ways. ‘Come On You Okes!’