Tribute Western Counties West

Kingsbridge 16,

Devonport 10

A much-needed and deserved four league points for Kingsbridge as they held off the challenge of fourth-placed Devonport Services to claim their first league victory since November 17 at High House on Saturday.

Kingsbridge closed the gap on Truro, immediately above them in the table, to just a single point and will hope to further improve on their current ninth place in the table during their remaining five matches of the current campaign.

Kingsbridge had to spend much of the opening quarter soaking up pressure from the visitors, who are enjoying one of their best seasons in the WCW league.

Kingsbridge had occasional forages into the Devonport 22, but were unable to penetrate the well-organised defence. It wasn't until the 26th minute that the opening score came through an Ashley Treeby penalty to put the home side 3-0 ahead.

Four minutes later and Kingsbridge had increased their lead in the strangest of fashions.

With another penalty awarded to the hosts, Treeby's shot at goal fell short of the target and flanker Matt Hamilton – making a welcome return to the side following a long injury lay-off – following up the kick, was on hand to gain the touchdown as the Devonport players watched helplessly.

Treeby converted from in front of the posts to put Kingsbridge 10-0 ahead.

Devonport returned downfield prior to the half-time interval and were themselves rewarded with an unusual try as Kingsbridge looked to clear their lines.

The clearance kick rebounded off a Devonport player, who then followed up to touch down and score. The conversion saw Kingsbridge lead 10-7 at half time.

The second half continued to be tight as both teams looked to grab the initiative. Kingsbridge again had to defend resolutely but were rewarded twice for their efforts in attack as full-back Treeby slotted over two penalties to extend the home team's lead to 16-7.

Devonport reduced the deficit to 16-10 with a penalty of their own ten minutes from time but the hosts hung on to record a well-deserved and much-needed victory.

Kingsbridge tries: Hamilton; penalties: Treeby (three); conversion: Treeby. 

Kingsbridge A XV travelled the short distance to face local rivals Totnes in the Devon 2nd XV Merit Table and came away comfortable victors in a poor match.

The visitors ran in 10 tries during the match where there were periods of good play followed by periods of poor play and this allowed the hosts to keep in touch.

A current lack of player commitment is currently not helping those trying to field a team each week, but credit must be given to those players who continue to make the effort to honour matches.

Kingsbridge tries: Moore (two), Horton (two), Bewley (two), Lamble, Masters, Bishop, Barlow. Conversions: Hamilton (two), Moore.  

This weekend sees Kingsbridge travel to face Exeter Saracens in the league in the knowledge that another performance like last week can help them pull away from the danger zone.

Kingsbridge A XV entertain Bideford II's in the Devon 2nd XV Merit Table while the Colts XV also welcome Barnstaple Colts to High House. 

In other news, if you are looking for an event venue for Saturday, May 11, KRFC have the ideal setting for you.

The clubhouse and marquee at the club's High House headquarters is available for hire for one night only for any type of celebratory or fundraising function.

Please contact Sue Darke on 07855 878604 for further details.