Devon Merit

Okehampton Colts 8

Barnstaple Colts 14

THE young Okes were literally seconds away from a much-needed morale-boosting victory on Saturday, but with the final play of the game defeat was snatched from the jaws of victory. However, this should not detract too much from what was a greatly improved performance and, in particular, some sterling defensive work in the final quarter of the match.

Okehampton were able to field possibly their strongest side of the season with Tom Stevens providing some midfield ballast and the returning Greg Daniel and Barnaby Waddell giving some real bite to the pack. Mention should also be made of two youngsters, Joshua Burgoyne and Jack Rutley, who made their Colts’ debuts — both acquitted themselves with aplomb and look to have a bright future ahead.

After fairly even but full-blooded opening exchanges the hosts took the lead when Ben McKenna-Smith, playing at out-half ghosted through the Barnstaple defence, showing the benefit of holding the ball in both hands. The conversion was missed but the Okes had their dander up. Despite plenty of chances for both sides, strong defences and a slippery ball conspired to see the rest of the half scoreless.

Okehampton made the worst possible start to the second period. Having fielded the deep kick-off cleanly their attempted clearance was charged-down and a Barnstaple player had the simple task of falling on the ball to complete the score. The extras were added and the visitors led 7-5.

However,Oke soon regrouped and within 15 minutes had retaken the lead through a long-range McKenna-Smith penalty. That was how it was to stay until the final play.

Barum threw all they had at the their hosts but were continually repelled by some sterling defence in the Oke red zone.

When the visitors missed a relatively simple kick at goal in the dying minutes it looked as though the win had been secured.

Inexplicably though, the drop-out was kicked directly to touch and after multiple phases the Barum scrum-half dotted-down from a yard out to break Okehampton hearts.