Bideford thirds 7

NORTH Tawton’s second XV travelled the short distance north to play regular rivals Bideford in a well contested game.

The game started with the hosts on top as their much larger and more experienced pack made inroads into the North Tawton half. Pressure did not provide points however, as Tawton’s defence held strong with McBain and Weekes ever present around the fringes.

After 20 minutes of sustained pressure North Tawton managed to counter a loose kick that saw full back Phare beat numerous defenders on his way to the try line; he was however unable to convert his own effort.

A further score came from the ever busy Baker playing on the flank; he danced his way between defenders on his way to the whitewash to make the half-time score 10-0 to North Tawton.

The second half was more pleasing to the away spectators’ eyes as the tired Bideford outfit were made to defend lengthy periods of North Tawton attack. With Quick junior in at fly half and his senior outside him North Tawton moved the ball with much intent in midfield - Howard being the main benefactor, as he made deep inroads into the Bideford 22 with many a strong carry.

North Tawton’s set pieces looked solid throughout, as the returning Phillips, along with the dangerous, Miller dominated up front in both scrum and line out alike. A disrupted Bideford set piece that saw the Tawton’s third score as Kerswill intercepted at the back of the line to touchdown.

Bideford remained resilient and capitalised on North Tawton’s poor discipline to score a well worked try of their own; shortly after Baker was sin binned for a scuffle with his opposite number.

North Tawton did take the final score however as Quick junior sped through a sizeable gap in midfield for a score under the sticks. This time Phare converting.