Bideford 22 - 5 Exmouth

This was the third time these sides have met this season and once again they did not disappoint a very appreciative crowd for this Devon Plate Final. In the previous outings both sides had won their home games and this was to be the decider - with Bideford benefiting from home advantage.

It took both side a little time to settle and from the early exchange of kickable penalties Bideford took their chance and took a lead they never surrendered. Once again the main battle was amongst the forwards with both sides committed to winning clean ball to develop with Bideford again taking their
chance and scoring a converted try.

Exmouth had three try scoring opportunities during the first half with the officials ruling out all three. A great solo effort by Adam Morris from a penalty saw him chip over the top and win the chase to the line only for the referee to disallow and restart with an Exmouth scrum 5. Shortly after a break down the left saw a pass inside for Sam Bull to cross only to see the linesman flag for a foot in touch. A driving maul saw Beau Kimble appear to cross the line but once again the referee disallowed for an infringement.

The first half ended 10-0 and it is fair to say Exmouth had the greater share of possession and could so easily have been ahead if lady luck had been with them.

The second half was disrupted by an almost constant string of injuries affecting both sides and there was no real opportunity for either side develop play. Bideford took the greater control during the third quarter and their powerful and well drilled pack set up two quick tires with one being converted following long periods in the Exmouth half. The scoreline was kept down by some fierce defending with Terry Mears making some big hits.

The last quarter saw both sides still testing and in keeping with the rest of their season Exmouth finished the stronger side camped in the Bideford half. John Parkin once again showed what a well balanced player he has become with a darting run from the 22 which saw him cross for a great solo
effort.

Exmouth ended the game on top but those missed chances early on made the difference with Bideford jubilant winners 22-5.

Once again Chris Button excelled and despite a nasty head seemed to be ever present making telling tackles and breaks. Whereas John Parkin made good use of the ball, under pressure, and scored probably one of the best tries of the season, picking his way through a mêlée of Bideford players. A unanimous and popular decision was that both should share the Man of the Match award.

With a large number of first year colts making up the bulk of this Exmouth side the season has been a tough learning experience but bodes well for next year. They have benefited from having Leigh Crellin, Liam Millman, Chris Button, John Parkin, Archie O'Connell, Darren Wood and Terry Mears around to share their knowledge and experience and we wish them continued success as they move up into senior rugby.