Sidmouth Under-14s bag fine win at Cullompton

Cullompton 14, Sidmouth 27

After months without any competitive action simply getting onto the pitch was something to behold for the Sidmouth Under-14 team who emerged as worthy winners on their visit to Mid Devon, writes Chris Woodruff.

Conditions underfoot at Cullompton were much drier than they have been of late, but the contest was still subjected to a stiff breeze that led to plenty of errors from both teams.

However, the 15-player squad on duty for the visitors showed grit and determination throughout.

Early signs looked promising as Sidmouth, through Bagwell, moved the ball quickly with the forwards creating space for Meads and then Lowe to touch down.

Surprisingly, the weather played a minor part in the first half until Sidmouth, looking reasonably in control despite playing into the wind, had a clearance kick stifled by the wind which Cully quickly punished to close the first half within three points with Sidmouth trooping off at the break 10-7 to the good.

Sidmouth were more effective in their use of the wind in the second half and kicking for territory secured a third try through Meads to open a 15-7 lead.

Cully then had a sustained period of pressure which the Sidmouth held off well, with notable performances from Cockayne, Hayman, Welsford, Norton and Stokes.

Inevitably both sides tired as a result of lack of match fitness and gaps began to appear and Cully exploited these first to draw nervously closer at 14-15.

Sidmouth dug deep and once again wisely kicked for line and took advantage through strong forward play for a further try from Meads which Lowe then converted.

There was still time for Cockayne to cross to complete the scoring for a jubilant Sidmouth.