Torquay RFC 2nd XV 17, Sidmouth RFC 2nd XV 22

The Quins kicked off in what could only be described as ideal conditions for running rugby.

The pack started well, securing their own ball in the scrum and regularly disrupting or even stealing their opponents’ put in. Quins missed an early penalty but their opening try came when flanker Sam Cummins tidied up a messy lineout 35 metres out and broke away to score in the corner, unfortunately the extras were not added.

The Quins momentarily allowed Torquay back into the game with a try of their own. However, the Quins were soon back in front, Ben Salter adding the finishing touches to score under the posts; the conversion was missed and luckily didn’t prove vital although it must serve as a warning to concentrate.

Torquay scored a converted try but the Quins soon regained the lead with a Ben Pratt penalty. Torquay scored their third and final try on the stroke of half time, 17-13.

Good defence by the Quins kept the hosts at bay and two quick penalties via the boot of Pratt put the visitors in the lead. The Quins’ forwards began to dominate but the backline were not quite up to par with their ball retention or handling but were always positive in they approach.

The Quins won a penalty which Pratt duly converted to open up a five point lead, and had chances late in the game when Torquay had one of their second rows yellow carded after annoying the ref.

eree one to many times and were fortunate not to have another player follow soon after for persistently being off side. The Quins’ pushed for another score but could not take advantage of the situation. This lead to a very tense last few minutes; the Quins’ almost blew it when Torquay intercepted a miss pass but the Quins’ cover defence was good. The Quins’ players and supporters were happy with the win but know they must improve.