Devon Colts Merit Table (Shield)

Tavistock Colts 8

Newton Abbot 0

TOM Pearson captained the Tavistock Colts team in their first Devon Colts Shield game of the season on a windy day at Sandy Park.

It was a strong start from Tavistock and they spent the first ten minutes in the Newton Abbot half of the pitch. This eventually led to a try by Jasper Cameron after Newton Abbot had valiantly defended on their line.

Newton Abbot started to put some pressure on Tavistock but some sensible rugby from the pack, slowing the ball down and getting the ball into touch, helped during this period.

With windy conditions both teams were struggling to retain possession from the line outs. Eventually, just before half time, Tavistock were awarded a penalty outside the 22 but just within kicking distance given the wind direction.

Edward Nettleship stepped up and struck a solid kick to get the three points.  Although a low score at half time with Tavistock leading 8-0, and both teams defending well, there was an expectation of more points.

As it turned out strong tackles from both sides led to a stalemate in the second half with backs working hard not to let anyone through, in particular, Conner Baker and Luke Lewandowski defending strongly.

A great break by Jake Houlberg nearly got Tavistock through the Newton Abbot defence, while Robin Bickley secured the ball on a number of occasions for the team in the rucks. Despite attempts to chip the ball over the Newton Abbot back line, their full back performed well and the perfectly weighted chips from Jack Easton couldn’t release the Tavistock wingers. The score remained at 8-0 on the final whistle, but the Tavistock players were pleased with the win after a tough game.

Other results in the Tavistock group were a win for Exmouth against Crediton (39-5), a win for Plymstock against Brixham (15-0) and Exeter Youth getting a bye.