Sidmouth Chiefs produced their best all round performance of the season so far to overwhelm Wellington, who are always tough opponents, writes Terry O’Brien.

The Chiefs started well, as Rob Griffin crossed the line after a series of rucks near the line, but he was penalised for making two moves to cross the line. A few minutes later, Rory O’Brien was also denied when he was adjudged to have knocked on before he could touch down.

The opening score eventually came following a handling move from halfway when an inside pass from O’Brien sent George Locke over the line for an unconverted try.

A second try soon followed when Harry Emmett touched down at the back of a lineout catch-and-drive play. Jake Smith added the first of five conversions. Another fine handling move was stopped just short of the line, but Rob Griffin was on hand to pick up and dive over.

The next ten minutes were dominated by Wellington camped near the Sidmouth line, but the defence was outstanding to prevent a score.

Eventually, the Chiefs responded with a move started deep inside their own half. Tom Hodge crossed the line but was recalled for a knock on. The half-time whistle came with the Chiefs leading 19-0.

From the restart kick, Phil Dollman started a handling move down the left, which was finished off with a try by Cian Warren, which was unconverted. Three minutes later, Shaun Malton peeled off on the blindside of a ruck near the line to drive over for a try, which was well converted from the touchline.

Midway through the half George Locke scored his second try from a well-executed move from a five -metre scrum. A similar move gave Cian Warren his second try with ten minutes to go.

The scoring was completed when Tom Hodge broke through the centre and offloaded for Connor Preston to score under the posts.

On Saturday, the Chiefs travel to Teignmouth. The Quins entertain Topsham 2nds at Blackmore kicking off at 2.30pm. The Over 35s travel to Topsham.

The fabulous form of the Chiefs has been recognised by the league, as Sidmouth were awarded the St Austell Brewery Team of the Month, with captain Haydon Down receiving the prize from Devon RFY President Paul Harris.