Sidmouth Quins 19, Paignton 17

The Quins secured their second win of the season, despite not having the majority of possession or territory, writes Steve Channing.

Paignton put Sidmouth under intense pressure from the kick off, and were unlucky not to score on numerous occasions. Charlie Daviesand Will Dunford eased the tide of attack and Paignton were kept at bay for 20 minutes.

A sudden counterruck, led by Neil Barrett, produced quick ball, James Powell chipped over the advancing defence, also tackling the receiver of the ball, allowing Dom Hawke to gather up and sprint over the line from inside the 10 metre line, Will Dunford added the extras, very much against the run of play. From the restart, Lewis Tollerfield started another quick series of ruck ball, which eventually the ball found its way to winger James Leat who danced his way down the touch line for a superb try, Josh Reed was just short with the conversion.

Paignton responded with a try of their own after another poor lineout on Sidmouth's behalf. A penalty awarded to the home side just before half time, right in front of the posts was quickly taken and play edged towards the left hand side. leading 12-5 at the break.

Great defence led by captain Mike Down and No 8 Pete Springfield was followed by a nice passage of play from Sidmouth. Despite intense advances, the forwards could not cross the whitewash and, finally, the ball was handed to the backs, wingman Ben Pratt powering his way over under the posts, Josh Reed converted. With 10 minutes remaining Sidmouth lost Will Dunford with a bad knee injury, Dan Russell came on to the wing with James Leat moving to 9. Paignton never gave up and were unfortunate to be called back for crossing when clear. They soon pulled a score back when the home defence was left wide open for a easy try under the posts. Cris Otway and Brynn Thomas were brought on to freshen up the weary legs of the Sidmouth pack. With the last play of the match, the visitors scored under the posts but, luckily for Sidmouth, the conversion was missed and an unlikely victory gained.

This week, the Quins make the short trip to Exmouth 2nd team.