Tribute Devon one

Salcombe dominated this match for the first 10 minutes and went 7-0 up through a try from the rumbustious James Palmer, converted by Chris Drew, finishing off a fine forward drive to the posts. Palmer then took a knock to the head and had to go off.

Already short of Sean Baker, recovering from last week's match, Palmer's absence was particularly felt as Dartmouth used their heavy pack to best advantage.

The next 55 minutes largely belonged to Dartmouth, who scored two tries, one converted, and two penalties in the period, with the ever-reliable Drew keeping Salcombe in touch with two penalties.

Entering the last 15 minutes of the match, the Crabs were 13-18 down but superior fitness and composure, with no penalties conceded in the time, saw them score 11 points scored without reply.

A lot of credit must go to the half-backs, Drew and captain Lewis Winzer, who both had excellent games and controlled the situation well.

The inspiration was a moment of genius from Oli Masters, who made a great break from centre before putting in a delicate chip ahead for wing Mark Parnowski to gather for the try out by the far touch.

Drew's conversion narrowly failed but the scores were level and Salcombe started to re-assert themselves, establishing play in Dartmouth territory.

The visitors, who were visibly tiring, had to infringe to stop the Crabs scoring points, thus allowing Drew to kick two fine penalties to put Salcombe just clear.

This was an important win for the Crabs as it keeps them five and six points clear of Topsham and Torrington, who are also battling to avoid the drop to Devon 2.

Dartmouth, barring miracles, already look likely to be playing in the lower division next season. But the chasing pack have several games in hand on Salcombe and have a rather easier run-in than the Crabs, who have to play the top four clubs in the league, only one at home.

This Saturday Salcombe will send a club side to play Torquay thirds at Torquay, kicking off at 2.30pm. They then play Exeter University away on March 2 before kicking off their 125th year celebration with a former players lunch on March 9, before the home league match against New Cross.

All VPs and sponsors have been invited, lunch is free but not the drink and the club should be full to cheer the boys on in a vital league match.