Sid U13s powered into Devon Cup semi-final

Who needs the Six Nations when, in a wonderfully entertaining game, Sidmouth U13s produced a performance at Blackmore which epitomised the team ethos. The opponents, a powerful side, attacked from the start and only a solid defence prevented the home side from going behind in the early stages. Aggressive tackling from Welsford and Down, who looked sharp throughout, kept the visitors at bay and a terrific break from the 22-yard line by Faulkner produced the first score of the game. Devonport continued to have the lion's share of possession before, in a move straight from the training ground, Faulkner kicked a dead ball up the middle of the park for Webber to chase and catch. From that position no one catches Webber. The steadfast tackling continued by all, none more so than Goddard (tackling well above his fighting weight, as usual) and Harris who had a very productive game in the centre of the field. Sidmouth's scrum had the edge with good work from Headon (later replaced by Marish), Rutland and Cooper with East showing his versatility as a stand-in flanker. The visitors' speed in the ruck continued to cause problems, despite excellent work by Carlisle in producing turn-over ball. Just before the break Faulkner scored his second with a kick-and-chase from his own half which left both him and the home crowd breathless.The second half started with another try for Webber from a sublime pass at speed from Jenkins, whose decision-making throughout, along with scrum half Gosling, was spot on. Gallantree, industrious all morning, was unfortunate not to get on the score sheet following an aggressive run down the wing, a last ditch tackle taking him into touch. The visitors were able to get points on the board with two individual efforts before Kearns completed an outstanding captain's display with a run down the left wing to score the final try of the game. Semi-final next and more sleepless nights to come!