Okehampton rugby dusting down for Ivybridge clash

Okehampton Rugby Club came off second best against well-drilled visitors Devonport Services last week.

Flying after their promotion, Services started up the slope in front of another large, sponsor's lunch boosted crowd. Matches between these sides have always been close affairs and the first forty demonstrated this in abundance.

Both sides generally cancelled each other out for the majority of the half as defences dominated. The Services pack showed early signs that they were well drilled, particularly at the set piece.

Okes looked to unleash their lively backs whenever possible but were generally thwarted. When they did break through, the ball was ultimately spoilt, or knocked on, to increase the home frustrations. Okes missed an ambitious long-range penalty as they struggled to glean an advantage.

As the weather worsened, Okes continued their admirable tactic of moving the ball from all areas, although they may have been wiser using the boot more often, with conditions significantly in their favour. In fact, the visitor's opening score arose after Okes declined exiting via the boot on several occasions before turning the ball over. Services took advantage with a converted score to lead by seven.

The hosts responded and when finally visiting the Services 22, forced a five-metre scrum. The set piece was solid enough to allow number eight Tom Mcgrattan to pick up and plough over, bringing the scores level once Dan Fogerty landed the extras.

The interval arrived with no further scores and Okes knew they would have plenty to do in the second forty as the weather worsened, making moving the ball increasingly difficult.

The second half commenced as the supporters took cover from the deluge. Services hit their straps early and their pack became increasingly dominant. Okes struggled throughout the half to earn possession, and when they did, a scrum ultimately arrived soon after.

With Services pushing Okes off their own ball and forcing penalties, the home side couldn't escape the confines of their own half. Okes held out bravely until a goal line drop out struck a visiting player and Devonport were soon in under the bar. Another converted score arrived shortly thereafter, as the Okes just couldn't secure enough ball to fully test the visitors.

Sonny Luxton saw yellow as Okes frustrations grew, and they in fact defended well in the time remaining to prevent the concession of a bonus point fourth try. When the final whistle came, Services emerged with a deserved 21-7 win.

This is a tough league but Okes are already making significant strides from where they were this time last season.

This weekend provides an opportunity to return to winning ways, and a break from league fixtures when Ivybridge visit for a Devon Cup tie, KO 3pm. Please come along and back the lads as they look to bounce back at the Showground.... 'Come On You Okes!'