Barnstaple U16s 16

Okehampton U16s 5

Okehampton were to rue indiscipline towards the end of the first half as they gifted Barnstaple an easy six points that always kept them out of touch.

They started sluggishly and after 10 minutes Barum were to take a lead they would never relinquish.

Poor tackling in midfield was the Okes' undoing as a home centre trotted through almost unopposed, the score went unconverted but first blood had been drawn.

In a stiff, bracing wind Oke started to play some intelligent rugby and despite the wind, stand-off Rhys Palmer, was kicking well for territory. During this period, the Okes enjoyed the lion's share of possession and territory.

Penalties in the 33rd and 35th minutes were to leave the score at 11-0 at the break.

The Okes started the second half well and within 10 minutes had reduced the arrears; a quick free kick stretched the home defence before Oli Francis was half tackled just short of the line but not being held he managed to scramble over for the score. Lewis Taylor was narrowly wide with the extras.

Both sides played with great pace and intensity, Barnstaple looked threatening but the Okes' scramble defence was holding firm and they showed glimpses of their own attacking prowess on the counter.

With five minutes remaining Barum scored the decisive try, Dan Fogerty saw yellow for killing the ball and the home side ran the ensuing penalty to score out wide.