Friendly

Ilfracombe Barbarians 7

Tavistock Colts 36

THIS was a convincing performance by Tavistock Colts against a highly committed Barbarians team which comprised the best of the South Molton, Bideford, Ilfracombe, Torrington and Tiverton Colts. 

The Barbarians got off to a bright start and dominated possession in the opening 15 minutes.  However, Tavistock defended well and began to grow in confidence and, getting more of the ball, they also gained positional advantage. 

It was only a matter of time before the visitors scored and after a prolonged period of pressure Dom Connor finished off a good team move to score the first try. 

The lead was only short lived when the Barbarians made the most of the confusion following a 'knock-on' to score and convert.  This forced Tavistock to focus and they soon found themselves in front again thanks to an excellent Taylor Kingham penalty to take a half time lead. 

Tavistock took a grip in the second half; the forwards were dominant and the backs closed the Barbarians threat effectively.  With the ball, Tavistock phasing well and when Josh Langton scored early on it was simply a matter of how great the margin would be.  Kier Murphy and Dom Connor scored two more tries and Sam Northmore capitalised on a poor lineout to run in a great individual effort. 

Taylor Kingham added a further four conversions to complete the scoring. 

Despite this being a friendly match Tavistock, who were equally compelling both offensively and defensively, thoroughly deserved the win.