Sidmouth 7 Barnstaple 48 Sidmouth Under-14s welcomed Barum to a rain-sodden Sidford, writes Chris Woodruff.

Both teams had not seen action mid-December, and were eager to resume playing!

The visitors dominated the first half as a rusty home side gave them far too much space to exploit.

With speed and size a series of tries quickly followed as Barum eased their way to a comfortable 34-0 lead at the break.

A half-time char from coaches Harris and Mead had the desired effect as Sidmouth started the second period with far greater tempo and purpose and their renewed endeavour was rewarded with a try and conversion from Lowe in which an impressive Skelding played a key role.

A period of balanced play followed with Sidmouth moving well and pressing up on the Barum line, matching larger players blow for blow!

Unfortunately, injury enforced changes were a blow to the Sidmouth cause and this created gaps which the visitors exploited to the full and it was they who finished strongly to seal victory.

The second half performance suggests this could have been a much closer game but for a more positive start from Sidmouth.