CREDITON RFC COLTS XV 36-19 IVYBRIDGE

A FRESH and eager Colts XV welcomed Ivybridge to Blagdon after several weeks without a fixture.

The prematch message was simple: get the basics right - set piece, ball retention, attitude. For the most part, the squad delivered exactly that.

Ivybridge arrived well drilled and organised, showing their trademark sharp handling and movement.

They looked to stretch the game by using the wide channels, asking early questions of the home defence. Despite that ambition, our physical edge and work rate began to tell as the half wore on.

With only a 17-man squad, the visitors were always going to face a stern test, particularly against our relentless ball-carrying and offloading game.

Even with a few Kirton lads stepping in to help bolster their numbers, Ivybridge struggled to contain the pressure.

The intensity at the breakdown that we showed and the willingness to keep the ball alive gradually wore them down, creating a great platform.

Our power and continuity proved decisive and while Ivybridge battled gamely throughout, tries from Jake Kibbey (2), Will Lewis (2), Ben Pulfer, and Shy Wheeler plus conversions from Jake Kibbey (2) and Ollie Harris ensured a well-earned 36–19 win.

Coming up on Saturday, March 7: 1st XV v Teignmouth (A), 2nd XV v Devonport Services (A), 3rd XV v Exmouth (H), Colts XV v TBC.