Final score: Exmouth RFC 62-7 Sidmouth RFC

The COCKLES travelled to sunny Sidmouth on 8 October for the first of 4 Devon Senior Cup pool games. The next round is not until March 2023.

Sidmouth belied their one-league-lower status and let Exmouth know they are seeking promotion for next season. The COCKLES started well with tries for James Clarke and George Mears within 7 minutes. Adding a conversion and penalty from George Meadows, the visitors lead 7-15 at half time. A Jed Reid try, with Dan Retter conversion kept Sidmouth in touch, the first forty minutes was pretty balanced with both sides testing defences. Lee Loveridge had to sit on the naughty step for 10 minutes; however, the home side were unable to take advantage of the numerical advantage.

The second period was a complete contrast and the COCKLES landed 7 tries with a further 17 points from George Meadows including a try. Clarke crossed for his brace, Jack Madge, Toby Papp, Fin Marks, Nick Headley & Chris Ramones on debut at scrum half closed the final score, 7-62. Exmouth lads started to get the upper hand, Lee Nightingill into the front row looked comfortable on his debut. The missing ingredient from previous weeks seemed to have returned, the side looked more relaxed, more comfortable on the ball and playing rugby with a smile. The large travelling support definitely appreciated the effort from both teams. Sidmouth will test Devonport Services, Newton Abbot & Okehampton, the other teams in the pool.

The COCKLES have a big Regional 1 South West League game on Saturday 15th October. Brixham travel to the Imperial Recreation Ground, kick off @ 2.30pm.

QUINS travel to Torquay 1st Team on Saturday 15th October. The south Devon side sit two places above Exmouth, who are currently 4th in Counties 2 Devon League. This should be a cracking encounter on the coast.

NOMADS have a week off. Next up Honiton 2s at home on Saturday 22nd October. Kick off at 2.15 pm.