Okehampton U16s 13

Tavistock U16s 0

The first competitive match of the 2013/14 season saw Okehampton playing local rivals Tavistock in the league

Starting in the blazing sunshine play the first half up the hill. Tavistock from the kick-off pinned Oke back just outside their 22 but solid defence hardly allowed the opposition to make any further yardage.

Some great controlled rugby from Okehampton drove the visitors to their 22. A further transgression from Tavistock allowed Oke a penalty, which Jacon Horn duly converted for a 3-0 lead. From the restart a series of rolling mauls ensued allowed Oke to steal big yardage. The pressure told on Tavistock and one of their players was yellow carded to reduce them to 14.

Oke though could not capitalise but continued to chase them all over the parkas the sides went in at the interval, the home team leading 3-0.

In the second half, and now with the Oke playing down the hill they played most of the game in the visitors' half. Noah Nash broke through for the season's opening try for Okehampton. Handling the ball on the ground saw Ben Arnold sidelined on a yellow card for ten minutes.

Okehampton continued, although a player down, and a further try was added by George Nye finishing off a great touchline to touchline move from Okehampton.

This was a great start to the season for Oke, with new recruit Sam Colwill starting his first game for the club.

Okehampton U15s 31

South Molton  U15s 0

BOTH sides playing their first game of the season showed their intent on making the game a good physical battle. Oke starting possibly the stronger but the Molton pack were determined not to let any attacking phase pass them.

Although the score line might suggest an easier run for the home side, the lads from South Molton made Oke work hard for every point.

The game was split into four quarters to allow adjustments and some coaching on the new scrummage laws.

Try scorers for Okehampton were Kyle Pidgeon, Daniel Thorne, Johnny King, Liam Pyle. Their conversions were taken Daniel Thorne and James Bowden.

In all this was a pleasing performance for Oke's first game of the season.  

Tavistock U14s 48

Plymstock Oaks U14s 17

DESPITE a significant weight and height disadvantage, the Tavistock pack held their own. Set piece play was always a struggle but absolute determination in the open shone through as 'first game' nerves gave way to increasing dominance at the loose ball.

With a platform established, Tavistock's newly re-organised backline became the dominant force. Rapid and intelligent ball repeatedly split the opposition defence and opened space for Tavistock pace players. Ben R repeatedly made ground through the centre and timed his off-loads to perfection. Combined with total commitment in defence by the entire team, the result was a resounding and well deserved victory.

Reuben, Ed, Jake and Morgan all ran in superb tries. Ben Jones had a superb game with a personal tally of 20. Player of the match on his debut was Nathan Miles.

Soul (6) and Morgan (2) added the conversions

This was an excellent start to what promises to be an exciting year for Tavistock U14s.