Honiton RFC are tonight the pride of Devon – indeed the pride of Westcountry rugby after they bagged a thrilling 29-27 win in the final of the RFU Senior Vase played at Twickenham.

Honiton RFC are tonight the pride of Devon – indeed the pride of Westcountry rugby after they bagged a thrilling 29-27 win in the final of the RFU Senior Vase played at Twickenham.

The Lacemen had led 12-10 at half-time, and lead again late in the second half, but, with just five minutes remaining the Lacemen’s dream of a Twickenham triumph seemed to be receding as they trailed 27-22.

However, just as they have shown all season as they claimed the runners-up spot in the Tribute Cornwall and Devon league and then secured the Devon Intermediate Vase seven days before, the Lacemen found a late gear and scored a try that drew things level at 27-all. This left former Exmouth player Tom Steer – who has settled in so well since switching from the Imperial Ground, Exmouth to Allhallows, stepped up and rifled the match-winning conversion that ultimately led to wonderful scenes at Twickenham as Honiton’s players and large support celebrated as the trophy was presented.

Speaking after the game, Honiton player-coach Nathan Hannay said: At 10-0 we were clearly looking a little nervous as yet again we had made something of a slow start. However, all season long when we have suffered similar slow starts this team has shown great character to overcome adversity and they did it again.”

His reply to the question: “Tow cup finals in two weeks and, if you include the promotion from finishing as runners-up in the league before the first of the cup finals it means three successive weeks of celebration – how does that feel? Hannay replied: “I am speechless. It was some game. Lets give credit to Northallerton, who are a very good side and showed some terrific spirit of their own for the two teams to serve up the match we did. It’s been an unbelievable journey with an unbelievable end.”

The team and club officials headed off post match to a reception – and no doubt huge celebration at Kingston before returning – as Vase winners – to East Devon

Make sure of your copy of the Midweek Herald – out next on Wednesday (May 8) as it will carry three pages of reports, comment and pictures from a fabulous day at Twickenham for all concerned with Honiton RFC.

Read more from our man Sam Cooper who was present at Twickenham to take in the action and also see pictures from outr photographer Terry Ife on line in the coming days – and for now, from all at the Midweek Herald – CONGRATULATIONS HONITON RFC.