Sidmouth Quins 33, Devonport 8

A welcome return to the Blackmore, after a month of away fixtures, concluded with a well earned victory for the Quins, writes Steve Channing.

A nervous start by the home side was brought alive when Steve Trim made a break in mid pitch, a high tackle bringing a halt to the scrum half's advancement. Will Dunford expertly kicked the resulting penalty for a three-point lead.

Martin Keywood, once again showed his potential, with a couple of barnstorming runs which even had Mr Thomas cheering for Sidmouth from the stand.

Andrew Doidge claimed Sidmouth’s first try following a forward catch and drive from a line out caught by Lewis Tollerfield. Dunford added the conversion. Devonport hit back with a penalty, Stuart Bickerstaff having been deemed to be in the wrong in a wrestle with the visiting 8.

James Powell scored next, receiving a delightful delayed pass from second row Bryn Thomas, who injured his knee badly in the process, meaning he will miss the rest of the season. Dunford's radar was bang on for the two points. Devonport were hard done by when a certain try was pulled back for a forward pass, before Dunford saw the half out with another three pointer for a 20-3 lead.

Devonport only travelled with the bare 15 ( a situation Sidmouth have often been in this season) and lost one of their front row, so uncontested scrums were brought in, halting Sidmouth’s domination up front for the second half.

shortly afterwards, Sidmouth lost Lewis Tollerfield with a dislocated shoulder. He has been one of the Quins’ most consistent and regular performers this season. Devonport scored a try, running up through the middle of some poor attempts at tackling from the home team.

Dunford carried on his rich vein of kicking missing one out of three, which just shaved the wrong side of the upright. Jamie Wardrop put in a great try-saving tackle to deny the visitors. Ben Pratt crashed through a couple of would-be tacklers and touched down under the posts to give Will Dunford his easiest kick of the day.

This was a resounding result in a league the Quins have struggled in this season. It certainly helps being at home and having replacements. This Saturday, the Quins are home against Barnstaple who recently ran in over 70 points against Sidmouth 2nds.