Honiton Under-12s power to Bridgwater success

Playing on an uncharacteristically narrow pitch, the Lacelads intelligently kept things tight early on, with the all-powerful Gabriel Cortinhas, Arthur Hattan, Osian Owen and Yannick Barrett providing the go forward.

The opening try came in the early exchanges when Edward Grimshaw passed to Arhur Hattan who cut a great inside line to cross.

The Lacelads continued to force the pace, and this enabled the impressive Yannick Barrett to cross for a couple of exceptional tries, after two barn-storming runs!

From the kick-off the Lacelads again built the phases, with the energetic Osian Owen next to score, after he propelled his way to the line.

That proved to be the last of the four Honiton first half tries.

Despite the first half dominance, there was little complacency from Honiton who were simply relentless after the break.

Full back Tim Goody was next to score, as he crossed for two accomplished tries. With near constant possession, Charlie Shepherd then hit the ball at pace, and dived over to cap another neat team try, with Arthur Hattan nabbing his second of the match soon afterwards.

Next to score was Yannick Barrett who again demonstrated his handing off skills, to power over for two further tries, before Bridgwater’s endeavour was rewarded with a try of their own.

There was still time for James Harris to showcase his running skills, passing several players before off-loading to Felix Williams to score in the corner.

The final say went to scrum half Joe Evans. He gathered the ball near halfway, and backed his pace to cap a fine individual performance, and score the Lacelads 13th try!

After such an all-round performance, it is always difficult to single individuals out, but the tough tackling Lee Pullman shone on his debut, alongside the relentless Billy Tarr.

However, man of the match deservedly went to the uncompromising Gabriel Cortinhas who in only his second game of rugby, already looks like a seasoned campaigner!