Lacemen Colts take it to the wire

Exmouth 27, Honiton 17 The Lacemen Colts gave a fine performance before being narrowly defeated, writes Paz Parratt

The team travelled with a skeleton crew which suggested it would always be an up hill battle!

From the first kick Honiton were able to take control and gained territory quickly, working the fringes. The ball was played out and gathered well by full back Ben Kidson who cantered home to claim the first score of the match. Tit-for-tat rugby was played for the next 15 minutes before the home side levelled things up at 5-5.

There was more end-to-end play until a quick off-load and good hands allowed Ross Oaten to cross the Cockles’ line and Oaten slotted the conversion to make it With the half coming to a close Exmouth managed to scramble over following a driving maul, the kick drifted wide and the Lacemen led 12-10 at the break.

With the lack of numbers and a very physical game, the Lacemen started to pick up injuries and Exmouth were able to take full advantage running in a brace of tries. The Lacemen regrouped and worked their way in to the scoring zone where Johny House was able to weave through to dot down on the wing for an unconverted try.

The hosts introduced the fresh legs that enabled them to see the game to a winning conclusion for them.

The Lacemen colts played some exceptional rugby in this match showing some mature decision making.