Sidmouth U12s 21, Avonvale 14.

On a glorious day for rugby, a small but tight-knit Sidmouth U12s team welcomed touring Avonvale to the Blackmore.

From the opening exchanges it was clear it was going to be a test for the home side, Avonvale taking a deserved lead while their hosts settled. Gradually, Sidmouth played their way back into the game and started to believe they could match their opponents' aggression and skill. Welsford, Stokes and Lowe galvanised the forwards to compete up front, while Bagwell, Tidds and Stamp ran the ball purposefully in the backs.

Early in the second half they got their reward when Bagwell crossed after fine handling and support play. The arrival of Hayman added slickness to the back play while Reed, Norton and Madeley ensured plenty of possession came their way. Malec finished a fine move to edge Sidmouth into the lead, but Avonvale responded with renewed vigour to level shortly afterwards. In response, Sidmouth raised their game again, dominating the remainder of the match. Malec out-paced the defence to finish off a good passage of team play and restore the lead. FitzHenry fielded Avonvale's last venture into Sidmouth territory to set up another attacking position and put pressure on the visitors' defence. However, the final whistle went before this could be turned into another score.

Well done to all the players for a satisfying and encouraging performance in a tough fixture.