THE MIDDLE Saturday of the Easter Weekend saw the momentous occasion of the 100th anniversary of the traditional Barry Cup fixture between Salcombe and Buckfastleigh.

Historically played home and away in alternate seasons between the two teams it has always been a full-blooded and keenly contested affair with this year being no different, not least because this year’s match is likely to be the last.

The match itself, once under way, was more physical than skilful. Almost as if having blown themselves out the Ramblers allowed Salcombe back into the match in the second quarter with a reverse of the first period being played out. The difference this time was that the Crabs managed to execute two such opportunities; the first from Jay Hannaford and the second from Dom Loomes.

The second half turned out to be a very cagey 40 minutes. Several “disagreements” were dealt with by the referee by the use of yellow cards and nothing particularly meaningful occurred until the final moments when Buckfastleigh scored what everyone hopes will not be their final-ever try.

Firstly, Salcombe would like to thank Buckfastleigh for the relationship both clubs have enjoyed over the years and to the two chairmen for working hard to make sure this particular fixture could take place under difficult circumstances. Salcombe wish all the best for the future to Buckfastleigh in whatever form that may be and whenever that may be. South Devon rugby is worse off for every club that cannot continue to function.