Sidmouth Under-14s have suffered a brace of defeats in their last two games, writes Chris Woodruff.

First up they went down 38-7 to a large and constantly rotating Topsham side. Former Sidmouth player Hubble was a key factor in the Topsham victory, but Sidmouth defended well in a game that was evenly contested for much of the play. Fighting to the end Cockayne secured a creditable try which Harris duly converted.

The team then entertained Exeter Chiefs and went down 37-0.

This contest was played at a rain-soaked Blackmore and conditions led to a game littered with handling errors.

Chiefs have clearly improved this season, but Sidmouth pressed high and for much of the first half the play was evenly matched with either side capable of scoring.

Chiefs eventually opened the scoring and progressively exposed Sidmouth’s width, overloading the wings and breaching the thinly spread Sidmouth back line. The trend continued but Sidmouth came close on a number of occasions and their spirits were never dampened. Post match there was a well earned mince pie for all.

The players now have a festive break before returning to action in the new year.