BIDEFORD 2ND XV 48-7 CREDITON 3RD XV

WHILE the 2nd XV were taking on Bideford 1st XV, the 3rds had an equally tough assignment, heading to Bideford to take on their 2nds.

With numbers short all through the club, it’s the 3rds that got hit hardest and the legend who is John Gurzynski had to work his magic to pull in a few lads that haven't played for a while to get 16 players to head to North Devon.

Our hosts came out strong with a great backline who set the tone for the game, scoring most of their tries. However, our defence through the middle was strong, forcing them to score out wide!

Our try was one of beauty for those who enjoy a driving maul. With a line out on their 10m line, Andrew Griffiths found his target as Callum Anthony soared above his opposite number. The pack drove the maul with vigour and all the way to the tryline where Richard Gray showed exceptional control to touch down. Owen Cooper was successful with the conversion.

Bideford continued to pile on the points with some great team tries but, in the final 10 minutes, the 3rds put on a fine performance and showed their never-say-never attitude. Camping in the hosts’ ’22, players from 1 to 15 battered into the defence on their own line. Bideford were strong though and we were denied another try.

The final scoreline does not reflect the effort that our lads put in. They held their heads high through the tunnel with respect for each other and for our opponents. We wish Bideford all the best for the rest of the season and look forward to the return fixture at Blagdon.

Coming up this Saturday, October 25, the 1st XV welcome Okehampton to Blagdon, the 3rd XV host Exeter Saracens and the Colts head to Brixham. We look forward to welcoming Graphic plc and CMC Eakers as our match day sponsors.

On Sunday, the Women’s XV take on Okehampton in the National Cup.

Rob Avery-Wright, Chris Hooper, John Gurzynski and Jay Harris