TOPSHAM 34

NORTH TAWTON 5

NORTH Tawton travelled to Topsham last Saturday for a Seconds v Thirds clash and with both sides having only one loss to leaders Wessex to their name, everything was to play for.

Prior to the game both teams united for a minute’s applause in memory of Exonian’s player Lily Partridge, who sadly passed away in a rare and tragic accident last week after training as part of the Devon ladies development set up.

The first half was dominated by the hosts as North Tawton struggled to adjust to a change of personnel due to a number of unavailabilities.

This was not to take away any credit from Topsham who dominated possession and territory stats and played at a temp unseen by the Tawt’s for a number of games.

An early kick at goal and try from Topsham put a 10 point gap between sides before spectators even managed to lift their glasses to their mouths.

This unfortunately for the mid Devonians was theme of the half as half-time came with them trailing 27-0.

The second half did see an improvement from the guests as they strung together a few more phases and opportunities to score.

Eventually pressure told as Ayris dotted down out wide. North Tawton’s discipline once again proved their undoing as Quinn and D Dennis went to the bin for dissent on 70 and 72 minutes.

One positive the Tawt’s may take is the second half finished 1-1 on a try count but ultimately were second best on the day.

Tomorrow, Saturday, December 19, North Tawton travel to bottom side St Columbia and Torpoint looking to get back to winning ways.

MK

Pics in 1064 downloads: DSC_0050.jpg

Topsham attempting to make further headway during the game. Photo: Peter Hoggins

DSC_0047.jpg

North Tawton about to put a stop to a Topsham player with the ball. Photo: Peter Hoggins