Sidmouth 5, Ivybridge 26 After much to’ing and fro’ing Sidmouth Under-13s welcomed Ivybridge for a cup semi-final at home ground number three, a superbly maintained Bicton College, writes Chris Woodruff.

Sidmouth, in reversed white shirts were on the defence immediately as Ivybridge smashed home despite strong defensive play in particular from Stamp and Hayman. Balls were spilling on both sides as cold hands struggled to provide flowing play but Sidmouth, responding well, eased the ball wide to Hubble who powered in for a try to close to 5-7. Sidmouth maintained the pressure with a passage of positive central play with Lowe creatively opening play with a cross field kick that Mead was unfortunate not to capitalise on.

Sidmouth forwards bossed the scrums and rucks throughout the game against the larger Ivybridge and the highly effective Bagwell afforded opportunity for the centres and backs which Ivybridge pressurised and for the remainder of the first period pinned Sidmouth back in their half.

Ivybridge started the second half in the ascendancy as the impressive centre cut through the Sidmouth line with ease for a second try and conversion making it 5-14. Sidmouth adjusted positions as Perez (E) replaced an injured Lowe and Woodruff, moved wide to wing, relished the opportunity to play rugby football as Sidmouth showed a fighting spirit and refused to buckle. Late errors in close play by Sidmouth were quickly eventually exploited as Ivybridge closed out the game 5-26.

Ivybridge will be strong contenders for the cup, but Sidmouth can be proud of their play, passion and in particular the impressive forwards.