Sidmouth II remain top of the table after beating Exeter

Despite missing eight members of the team that brought them success in the previous match against Teignmouth, Sidmouth still had too much firepower for a strong Exeter side, maintaining their position at the top of the League.

The match began with Exeter taking an early lead, capitalising on unexpected errors by Sidmouth.

However, this was swiftly corrected, as Sidmouth maintained constant pressure on the visiting team, taking the lead within the first 15 minutes, and extending it by the halftime.

Sidmouth II faced Exeter Athletic (Image: Gemma Rose)

In the words of the veteran hooker Neil Barratt, who made an impressive score after a successful warm-up.

Despite some initial setbacks, the team kept their cool, played the game and were able to take back control.

The second half saw an unfortunate tackle from James Perchard-Richards, giving Exeter a temporary numerical advantage.

The Quins stood firm, refusing to let their line be breached, securing another commendable win (Image: Gemma Rose)

Yet, Sidmouth's defence, particularly centre players Jack Hembrow and Tom Price, and wings Alex Clemo-Crosby and Mark Dapling ensured that Exeter couldn't make any other clean breaks for the rest of the match.

When fresh legs, in the form of Harrison Howe, Henry Williams, Alfie Collins and Adam Squance, joined the game after 50 minutes, the impact was instant.

Sidmouth's lead was further secured by another score from skipper James Docherty.

The icing on the cake was the spectacular 60-yard break from fullback Harvey Green that set up Sidmouth's second try of the game by Tom Butler.

As the game neared its conclusion, both teams had chances to score, but it was Exeter who appeared to gain momentum.

Nevertheless, the Quins stood firm, refusing to let their line be breached, securing another commendable win.

In essence, this game was emblematic of the transformation in Sidmouth's fortunes this season.

Even with a depleted team, the Quins demonstrated resilience, a full bench and fruitfully utilised their replacements.

The determined and sustained defence against Exeter's offence, the boost in confidence and the excellent teamwork all contributed to the well-deserved victory.

The final lineup for Sidmouth II included Charlie Farrington-Smith, Neil Barratt, Ned Coles, Tom Butler, Kyle Baker, James Perchard-Richards, Jake Paget, Ryan Davies, Charles Edwards, James Docherty, Mark Dapling, Jack Hembrow, Tom Price, Alex Clemo-Crosby and Harvey Green.

The scorers for the game were N Barratt, T Butler, and J Docherty.