Crediton 5 - 10 Exmouth

Exmouth took a much changed side to Crediton for this Merit Table 1 clash. Having had a comfortable victory earlier on in the season Exmouth were looking to do the double over their local rivals but without Crediton having a first team game, Exmouth fully expected to be tested in all departments.

The re-shaped Exmouth team took a while to get themselves into the game and despite some early dominance, they were unable to open their scoring account until 15 minutes into the game when Rich Haynes went over for a try wide out. This came from some good line out work by Steve Hexter which allowed the three quarters some room to move. Matt Brambles made a half break mid field and quick recycled ball gave Jim Nye the opportunity to release Russ Coombes for him to have a fine run and then pass on to Hayes for him to score. The touchline conversion by Ed Kirk fell short.

The Exmouth side continued to pressure the Crediton defence with some good runs by Nathan Bull, Dean Davis and Nye but they were unable to get over the line.

The Crediton score just on half time came from quick turnover ball following an Exmouth attack. The home team moved the ball quickly to their 3/4s and Exmouth were caught off guard and the Crediton winger scored in the corner, with an unsuccessful conversion, leveling the score at half time.

The Exmouth team continued to dominate most areas of play, in particular the line out work of Hexter and Davis gave the team plenty of good possession but mistakes mid-field cost them try scoring opportunities. The forward dominance continued and from a superb catch and drive, Davis scored a try wide out, again the touchline conversion failed.

Crediton came back at the Exmouth team and some sloppy handling by the Exmouth backs almost let Crediton in for a score but good tackling by Dean Chisling saved the day.