Tribute Devon Two

Buckfastleigh Ramblers 25,

Dartmouth RFC 5

On a glorious September afternoon at Buckfastleigh's beautiful ground in the Dartmoor foothills, visitors Dartmouth seemed to be playing good, fast rugby for most of the first half and the forwards and backs both combined in an impressive fashion. But they did not score.

In fact, Buckfastleigh took the lead after 30 minutes with a simple penalty that spurred the Riversiders into action when John Dingle, playing at prop for this match, scored an excellent try after some strong running by their backs.

Richard Lobb just failed with the conversion, hitting the post, as he did from a difficult penalty, and at half-time Dartmouth led 3-5 when they really should have been 20 points to the good.

Playing with the flukey wind in Darts' favour in the second half, coach Lee Chase seemed confident that they would now build on that lead and stretch the home side.

But this was not to be and gradually Bucks' forwards began to get the better of the Dartmouth pack, which seemed to be tiring.

Their scrummage lost its shape and all the advantage of the first period was soon lost.

Tackling became flimsy, allowing the home side to make a number of simple breaks through the Dartmouth defensive line. Poor kicking and not using the wind advantage also contributed to their inevitable downfall.

After 17 minutes, Bucks scored a converted try. Dartmouth just missed a Richard Lobb penalty from the half-way line and from then on it was all Buckfastleigh. They scored another unconverted try and a penalty that earned Matt Putt, the Darts' fly-half, a yellow card, taking the score to 18-5.

Finally a converted try gave a deserved victory to Buckfastleigh 25-5.

Dartmouth had flattered to deceive. They clearly have the ability to play some good rugby but better fitness and reading of the game is needed if their season is to improve.

Malcolm Shillabeer, Dartmouth rugby legend, was there to see, for the first time, both his sons playing together. Rory, 17, came on as a replacement scrum-half to join his brother Nick (who is a bit older).

Next week Dartmouth are at home at Norton for their second Devon Two match against Plymouth Argaum, kick-off 3pm

Dartmouth RFC have formed a new club committee this year, headed up by Simon Entwistle, and have two new coaches on board, Chris Chater and Lee Chase, with all at the club looking to be more positive on the key issues of getting new players and player retention.

 The club has some new sponsors who will be supplying new kit and on the social side the club also hopes to involve the vice-presidents more with active events in the year.