Devon Merit

Tavistock seconds 27

Teignmouth seconds 15

HAVING just survived a late pitch inspection from referee Paul Symons, the teams played out a hard fought Merit league match at windswept, rain-soaked Sandy Park, that kept the small band of spectators well entertained.

Tavistock played down the slope in the first half but spent long periods penned in their own 20 metre zone as the visitors pressed hard for the opening score.

Some fine defensive work from the whole Tavistock team kept them out, with hooker Kyle Maslen in the unusual position of fly-half, putting in some good clearing kicks to relieve the pressure.

The Tavistock front row of Jason Ward, skipper Ash Toll and Dave Welsh were putting their opposite numbers under increasing pressure in the set scrums and soon the home side were establishing some good attacking positions.

Midway through the half, after the forwards had won good ball in the middle of the park, a fine handling move from the backs saw wing Callum Thompson score the first try.

This scenario was repeated soon after and Thompson again finished off a strong attack. Centre Ben Hadfield added the conversion to establish a 12-0 lead.

Tavistock were in control for the remainder of the half until with the last play, Teignmouth set up a good rolling maul from a lineout 10 metres from the line; the referee deemed that the home side stopped the maul illegally and awarded a penalty try, which was converted, to leave the half-time score at 12-7 to Tavistock.

Playing up the slope in the second half and facing the ever increasing wind and rain, Tavistock brought on several replacements including prop Carl Parsons, having his first game since breaking his thumb a couple of months ago, and Colt Alex Lewandowski.

Tavistock continued to dominate proceedings and despite the awful conditions, produced some fine running rugby with very few handling errors. Three more tries were scored, Callum  Thompson completed his hat trick and flanker Ryan Bragg finished off two driving mauls by the forwards.

Teignmouth continued to play their part but were faced with some uncompromising defence from Tavistock, but did manage to add a drop goal and a late try to bring the final score to 27-15 to Tavistock.

 Both sides and the referee are to be congratulated on producing such  a fine game of rugby despite the conditions.