TORQUAY 32-31 CREDITON RFC COLTS XV

THE Colts travelled to Torquay’s Recreation Ground for their latest encounter.

Without the match-day squad size restrictions set out in competition regulations, it was great to see so many players pull on the black and amber jersey for this friendly fixture - 27 in total!

From the outset, the home side showed their intent, catching our lads cold with a sharp early try, set up with some slick backline play.

We responded with determination, gaining territory but conceding a series of soft penalties that allowed Torquay to escape pressure.

As the half progressed our forwards got more and more into their stride and Bertie Johnstone and Brent Courage both powered over for tries.

Jake Kibbey added the extras giving us a 5-14 lead. At this point it looked like we would take control but a number of errors and more penalties kept the home side in the game.

With the end of the half approaching, a converted try followed by a penalty gave Torquay a slender 15-14 lead at the break.

We made 13 changes for the second half and the players adapted well and injected some fresh energy. We upped our physicality, with Josh Burnison, Solomon Plowman, Tommy Murch and Kieron Wallis making an impact. The latter crashed over for an unconverted try to give us a 15-19 lead.

However, the “Tics” would not lie down and with our defence, at times, looking a bit disorganised, they scored a couple of tries to make it 29-19 with 15 minutes left on the clock.

Our forwards remained ruthless when in range, with Burnison crossing twice. Ollie Harris converted one as the to-and-fro nature of the game continued.

Torquay slotted a penalty and with just minutes to go had the lead at 32-31.

With one final throw of the dice, we were awarded a penalty that could have sealed the win, but the attempt drifted wide.

This was a thrilling contest decided by the finest of margins.

We will rue missed chances and a high penalty count but will take heart from a gritty, physical performance and the opportunity for so many lads to play the game!

This coming Saturday there is no game for the 1st XV. The 2nd XV host Withycombe while the 3rd XV head to Brixham. The Colts complete the group phase of the Devon Colts Competition away at Sidmouth.