Sidmouth Quins defeat Tiverton II in top-of-the-table clash

After enjoying a well-earned rest last week, Sidmouth returned to action, facing the only other unbeaten side in the league, Tiverton II.

The match showcased contrasting styles, with Tiverton's powerful pack dominating the early stages and Sidmouth relying on their agility and skill in the backs.

Tiverton made their strength known straight away, using their size to control the scrum and tight phases of play.

However, Sidmouth answered back with their strengths, particularly in the line-out.

Tom Butler and Alfie Collins were instrumental in securing possession, while Neil Barrett’s precise throws kept the Quins competitive.

Even though Sidmouth found themselves with less possession due to Tiverton's effective ball retention, their defence kept the home side from gaining any real advantage.

Jake Paget and James Perchard-Richards led the back row, supported by Jake Smith, Jack Hembrow, and Scot Henderson in the midfield.

When Sidmouth finally got the ball, they took full advantage.

Alex Clemo-Crosby fed Jake Smith, who orchestrated the attack from fly-half, exploring options across the field.

A well-executed line-out saw Barrett break through the defence, scoring the first try of the match under the posts, with Smith successfully converting.

The Quins continued to assert their dominance as Ryan Davies, delivered a man-of-the-match performance at No.

8, powered over the line for Sidmouth’s second try, extending their lead to 14-0.

However, Tiverton, determined to maintain their unbeaten record, responded just before half-time.

After a sustained period of pressure, they managed to score, reducing the deficit to 14-7 as the teams headed into the break.

As the second half began, Sidmouth aimed to build on their lead.

They created several chances, but both Jake Allen and Ollie Hansford-Harvey were thwarted by unfortunate bounces of the ball.

The Quins made some substitutions, bringing in Charlie Farrington-Smith, Isaac Lidster, and Henry Williams to strengthen their pack.

Charles Edwards replaced Clemo-Crosby at the scrum half, maintaining the quality of service to Smith.

Despite Sidmouth appearing to be the more threatening side, it was Tiverton who struck next, scoring a penalty that cut the lead to 10-14.

Faced with a tighter game, Sidmouth remained calm and continued to play their signature open style of rugby.

As Tiverton began to tire, the Quins executed a well-worked move that led to Edwards scoring their third try.

Smith added the conversion, sealing the game at 21-10.

With this victory, Sidmouth Quins now sit in second place in the league table, level on 23 points with Tiverton, who have played one game more.

Next week, Sidmouth will have the opportunity to reclaim the top spot when they face third-placed Exeter Engineers at the Blackmore, with a kick-off scheduled for 2.30pm, next Saturday.

The Quins’ line-up included Jack Marchant, Neil Barrett, Ned Coles, Alfie Collins, Tom Butler, James Perchard-Richards, Jake Paget, Ryan Davies, Alex Clemo-Crosby, Jake Smith, Sam Basnett, Jack Hembrow, Scott Henderson, Tom Price, and Jake Allen.

The scorers were Barrett and Davies, with Smith successfully converting three times.

Ryan Davies was named Man of the Match for his impressive performance.