The lead changed hands four times before Exmouth Cockles succumbed to a disappointing 30-39 loss to Camborne in a sensational match. 

Exmouth started brightly against the early season potential league favourites. By 14 minutes, a try for Sam Fulthorpe with penalty and conversion from George Meadows put the Cockles 10-0 up.  The next 16 minutes went to Camborne with scores from Ben Priddey, Aiden Muirhead & Connor Gilbert putting the visitors in front 10-19.   

George Meadows closed the gap, taking a penalty kick 13-19, as half-time approached. Both teams could have scored more throughout the half, however they cancelled each other out with good defence.  

Just after the interval, Jordan Sidwell increased the lead for Camborne, 13-24.  Exmouth then started to click and took their opportunities, a try for Fin Marks from a speculative chip through and a super individual burst from Nick Headley split the game wide open. Meadows added seven points from the boot, 30-24 to the Cockles with 20 minutes remaining.   

Camborne clinically added to their score from lineout drive and wide running, Priddey and Muirhead added their second try each with Gilbert taking away a losing bonus point with the last penalty kick of the game, 30-39. 

With only three tries and a nine-point gap, Exmouth finished with nothing to show for their best team performance this season.  There was the welcome return of a few lads, Ben Hawley, Connor O’Shaughnessy, Sam Fulthorpe, first start for James Clarke and debut off the bench for Elliot Fielding.   

The Cockles will now regroup for Old Centralians in Gloucestershire on Saturday. The two teams sit next to each other in the league. 

Exmouth Journal:

A top of the table clash for Exmouth Quins finished in favour of the hosts Tavistock.  The form team in the league proved good value on their 66-7 win. Exmouth forwards matched their counterparts, however disruption to Exmouth backs proved too much to cover but fair play to the lads who stepped in against the lively league leaders. Next up, Exeter Saracens make the short journey to the Imperial Recreation Ground, kick-off at 2.30pm. 

Exmouth Nomads missed out this weekend when Brixham 3rds were unable to raise a team. The Nomads welcome Exeter Saracens 2nds on Saturday, kick-off at 2.15pm.