Exmouth Rugby took a break from league action on the weekend, as the Cockles travelled to sunny Sidmouth for the first of 4 Devon Senior Cup pool games. The next round is not played until March 2023. 

Sidmouth belied their one league lower status and let Exmouth know they are seeking promotion for next season with a powerful performance.   

Despite that determination from the home side, Exmouth started well with tries for James Clarke and George Mears within seven minutes, adding in a conversion and penalty from George Meadows, the visitors led 7-15 at half-time.   

A Jed Reid try, with Dan Retter slotting the conversion, kept Sidmouth in touch, the first forty minutes was pretty balanced with both sides testing defences. Lee Loveridge had to sit on the naughty step for 10 minutes but the home side were unable to take advantage of the numerical advantage. 

The second period was a complete contrast and the Cockles took complete control, landing seven tries with a further 17 points from George Meadows, including a try. Clarke crossed for his brace, Jack Madge, Toby Papp, Fin Marks, Nick Headley and Chris Ramones on debut at scrum half closed the final score, 7-62.   

The Exmouth lads can be very pleased with their afternoon’s and Lee Nightingill came into the front row, looking comfortable on his debut. The missing ingredient from previous weeks seemed to have returned, the side looked more relaxed, more comfortable on the ball and playing rugby with a smile. The large travelling support definitely appreciated the effort from both teams. Sidmouth will test Devonport Services, Newton Abbot and Okehampton, the other teams in the pool. 

The Cockles have a big Regional 1 South West League game on Saturday, October 15, when Brixham travel to the Imperial Recreation Ground, kick-off 2.30pm. 

The Quins head along the coast to take on Torquay 1st Team on Saturday. The south Devon side sit two places above Exmouth, who are currently 4th in Counties 2 Devon League. This should be a cracking encounter on the coast and one of the more picturesque venues, with the Torquay ground situated on the seafront. 

Exmouth Nomads have a week off. Next up, Honiton 2s at home on Saturday, October 22. Kick-off at 2.15 pm.