CREDITON COLTS XV 40-39 DEVONPORT SERVICES

AFTER a two-week break, the Colts XV travelled to Britain’s Ocean City for a friendly against Devonport Services.

In a game where both sides were reduced to 13 men at different times, the Kirton youngsters were able to hold on for a dramatic victory.

Devonport got off to a flier and in no time were 12-nil up courtesy of 2 tries and 1 conversion. We responded quickly and when Ollie Harris converted his own try, scored under the posts following an interception, making it 12-7.

The game was a frantic one and it was end to end stuff, with both sides looking to play at every opportunity. When a Devonport attack faltered, Ozzie Kent pounced on a loose ball, fended off a couple of defenders and scored. Harris added the extras for a 12-14 lead just 15 minutes in!

We soon found ourselves 26-14 down but two yellow cards for Services gave us a chance to get back into the game. A well worked lineout catch and drive ended with Archie Bridgman going over and Harris slotting the conversion. Just before the break, Kent scored his second to make it 26-26 at half-time.

We started the second half strongly and following a scrum, the ball found its way to winger Monty Charteris who finished well. Harris showed composure to slot the conversion, drop kicking the ball after it fell off the tee.

The teams cancelled each other out for a period but we extended our lead when Joe Stanbury burrowed over. Harris made it five from six conversions and we looked comfortable with the score 26-40.

Games can change quickly, and we were then the recipient of two yellows. Devonport kicked a penalty and began to pile on the pressure. Two unconverted tries made it 39-40 and we were on the ropes.

Just as we thought time was up, Services were awarded a penalty on our 10-metre line and fairly straight to the posts. The home full back lined up to take a shot at goal but the kick fell short and, after a bit of a juggle, Solomon Plowman – who had been impressive all afternoon – punted the ball dead. Victory was secured by the tightest of margins.

This was a cracking game and a brilliant advert for Colts rugby in Devon.

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