North Tawton 40

Salcombe 7

NORTH Tawton welcomed Salcombe who sit in third place of Devon 2 to Taw Meadow, only to thoroughly entertain the large following who had enjoyed a pre-match meal for the sponsors' lunch.

From the kick off Tawton looked determined to make amends for their previous week's underperformance with some expansive and well communicated rugby. It did not take long for not only the scoreboard to be troubled but the try bonus point to be sealed as Salcombe were outplayed in all aspects of the game.

Only five minutes in and man of the match Matt Dennis opened the scoring with some fine footwork creating an opportunity under the sticks. In almost identical fashion the ever dangerous Craig Dennis mirrored his brother's prowess as rapid line speed from the base of a ruck saw him fly hack through and follow up on a Salcombe error. Converting his own effort the score reached 14-0.

With 18 minutes on the clock the score continued to rise, this time it was Jake Ayris who got his name on the score sheet.

It was at this point the onlooking supporters were allowed to breathe as Salcombe had a change in game plan and enjoyed some lengthy periods of possession; tucking the ball up their shirts and using their big forward runners. This sudden change did work for the visitors as good hands saw their hooker dive into the corner for a five pointer, spoiling the Tawton's month long try cleansheet. Half time 26-7.

The second half saw Salcombe continue their forward onslaught only to be met by strong close quarter defence from a defiant Tawton pack. After a spell of adaptation to the style of rugby the ball was back in Mid Devon hands and a string of phases led to the slender physique of Ben Sharp bundle over in the corner.

As time went on North Tawton rang the changes and welcomed all their substitutes onto the pitch who offered fresh legs to see the game through to the end. Jake Ayris sealed the deal completing another brace as he effortlessly picked up loose ball in Salcombe territory to convert five points uncontested. Final score 40-7.

• Next week North Tawton face their biggest challenge as they welcome Devon 1 leaders Plymouth Argaum to Taw Meadow in the next round of the Junior Vase.