A Crediton try scored by the right winger from a move started in their own half and with the ball passing through many hands was the fourth minute prelude to an entertaining try-fest for the supporters of both teams.

The Chiefs found themselves 24 points in arrears 30 minutes into this game against the team in second place in the league, despite spending significant time in the opposing 22.

Crediton were precise in finishing the opportunities which presented themselves, two more coming from lineouts and one from a series of rucks near the line. Meanwhile, the Chiefs lacked accuracy and composure in attacking positions.

This all changed on the half hour mark, when Dan Armstrong powered his way over from close range after good handling move had sent Sam Heathcote sprinting into the 22. Cole Monaghan added the conversion.

The visitors scored again, when the forwards mauled over following a good move by the backs, to make the half-time score 7-31.

Two minutes after the restart, the Chiefs were in all-out attack when the Crediton fly half intercepted on his own 22 and sprinted clear for a try which he converted himself.

From a scrum inside the Crediton 22, a set move sent George Locke through a gap for a converted try. Three minutes later, Jake Allen showed good finishing skill to round off a slick handling move.

Crediton’s seventh try was followed by two more from the Chiefs to ensure a valuable bonus point. Sam Heathcote ran on to a Dan Retter chip ahead to dot down in the corner before Haydon Down peeled off a lineout maul to dive over.

A Crediton counterattack in injury time brought the game to an end with their eighth try and a final score of Sidmouth 31 Crediton 52.

On Saturday, the Chiefs travel to Newton Abbot with the Colts. The Quins travel to Cullompton.

There is no scheduled home game but the clubhouse will be open to show the Six Nations games on the big screen.