Before the main event, the David Turner Memorial Cup meeting between the club’s first XVs, the respective 2nd XVs provided a thoroughly entertaining curtain-raiser that Sidmouth won 43-14, writes Terry O’Brien.

In perfect conditions, both teams set out to play open rugby in a match which was closely contested until the final quarter, when Sidmouth’s strong bench provided fresh legs to draw clear.

Sidmouth had the better of the early exchanges but faced a determined Honiton defence. Eventually the pressure was rewarded, when a series of ruck inside the Honiton 22 produced an overlap on the left. Despite laboured handling, Adam Squance evaded two tacklers to score in the corner.

Honiton came into the game as the half progressed but could not find a way through the home defence.

With five minutes left in the half, Charlie Cotton was yellow carded for failing to retire from a quickly-taken penalty. Despite being a man short, the Quins added to their score. Tom Robbins joined the line at a good angle to cut through for an unconverted try.

From the restart kick, Callum Wood produced a powerful run to take play to the Honiton 22 but could not find any close support. The score was 10-0 at the break.

Honiton started the second half strongly with their forwards leading the way as they drove and retained the ball through many phases until one of them powered over from close range. The try was converted.

The Quins responded almost immediately, when Charlie Cotton sprinted down the right touchline to score in the corner.

Harry Rumens darted over from the base of a ruck near the line for a fourth try after a good handling move had created the attacking position. Adam Squance added the conversion.

A solo 40 metre run by the Honiton inside centre for a converted try reduced the lead to eight points before the Quins took control in the closing minutes to add three unanswered tries.

Sam Wharton burst over from close range, Charlie Cotton finished off a fine handling move and Ben Salter ran in after a turnover on halfway. Adam Squance kick all three conversions.

On Saturday (September 2) at the Blackmore Field, the Quins entertain Topsham 2nds in Devon Merit Table Two kicking off at 3pm.The Colts play Crediton Colts in a friendly at Sidford with a 3pm kick-off.