Drama across the board for Devon rugby

It was a weekend of thrilling finishes for Devon rugby clubs and the Moorland contingent were heavily involved in the drama.

In a clash between two sides struggling at the wrong end of the table, Ivybridge pinched a crucial victory over St Austell to improve their survival chances, with Matt Grieveson converting a late Alex Garner try for a 20-19 victory in Cornwall.

It was third win from four for the Bridgers, who took an early 10-0 lead with a penalty and converted try from Jack Skinner. The Saints battled back into the game and were in relative control at 19-13 but there was a twist to come.

Four minutes from time, Garner found a gap in the Saints’ defence and set up the finale for Grieveson, who held his nerve to confirm a first win on the road for Ivybridge.

Okehampton are another Moorland outfit fighting back from a sluggish start to the season, as they recorded an excellent 30-29 victory over Launceston.

Okehampton’s joint Head Coach Mat Tichias said: “This derby match always produces some edge of the season stuff and this was no different. We came into the game on a real bad run of form, however, with it being Okehampton v Launceston, there is always an added bit of spice to the game and the lads seemed fired up for it.

“Credit to Launceston, who, in fairness took us apart upfront in the first half. Behind by 13 points at half-time, it meant that the boys had to dig deep and that they did, clawing Launces back within reach.

“Our set-piece was not firing, however the heart and determination came through, earning a penalty in the last play of the game, giving Luke Simmons the opportunity to right a wrong from a few weeks ago. He slotted from wide right, giving us a much-needed win.”

The theme of late victories was replicated in North Devon, where Bideford by a late score from Paignton and it was even more dramatic at Barnstaple. The hosts were staring at a defeat to Exmouth when a penalty try was awarded in the final minute to give Barum victory.

On this evidence, the second half of the rugby season is going to be spectacular.