Sidmouth Quins, making their first outing of the new year, served up a spirited show that combined attacking verve and determined defence as they defeated Bideford 39-22 at the Blackmore.

The growing confidence of this group of players, ably led by Neil Barratt, was more than evident as they built a strong first half lead then defended heroically against long periods of Bideford pressure and ended the game with two tries, looking for more.

Sidmouth started impressively with a scything run by Giles Dixon who stepped his way towards the line, offloading neatly to Ben Salter who scored wide out.

Sidmouth forwards, picking up the determination of the backs, imposed themselves on the Bideford scrum. Ollie Bartlett, playing at number eight in his final game before returning to his native Australia, threatened at the set piece and the loose, making good yards each time he was in possession. Bideford, however, hadn’t travelled to spectate and within minutes had a try of their own which was converted. Sidmouth’s own second row forward cum goal kicker, James Salter then added eight points to the tally by a penalty and a try of his own.

Bideford again reacted promptly with an unconverted try which simply motivated the Sidmouth forwards to attack showing close control when in sight of the opposition line. This pressure was rewarded with a try for Neil Barrat, converted by James Salter.

At this point good luck, which so far this season has escaped the Quins, showed itself in an opportunistic interception try by Ben Salter converted by James Salter and Quins went into the break with a 27-17 advantage.

Bideford started the second period with a well-worked try wide out which they were unable to convert and then spent the next 20 minutes hammering at the Sidmouth line.

They tried phase after phase of pick and go, but were unable to breach the resolute defence, even when the home side suffered a succession of injuries the four replacement players took their places adding to the spirit and confidence of the entire team.

Eventually Sidmouth broke free and, in their turn, put considerable pressure on the visitor’s line and Will Thomas, in his first game back after injury, made the final push to score under the posts with James Salter converting.

The scoring was completed when Giles Dixon crossed for the final try of the afternoon.

This win sets a new standard for the Quins to aim at for the remainder of the season, with this group of leaders and players we can look forward to an exciting few months ahead.

On Saturday Quins travel to Okehampton for a 2.30pm kick-off against Okehampton 2nd XV.