Boy what a fantastic opening three weeks to Kick off the season and last weekend was no exception. The chiefs ripped apart chew valley scoring 9 tries in the process. Athletic secured an important Win on their first road trip, confidently beating the then unbeaten Wiveliscombe whilst the Bucc’s continued to dominate the Devon merit table with another 8 tries.
This Saturday we welcome back Barnstaple Athletic to Pottington Road as they take on ST. Ives (sw) in counties 1 western west. They are Joined by the Colts who entertain Ivybridge Colts in a big test early in the season. On The road the Chiefs have a top of the table clash against an impressive Exmouth and Joining them will be the Buccs who take on Exmouth Nomads.
A couple of announcements before we get underway as usual. There is no senior rugby next weekend at Pottington Road as the Chiefs visit Crediton and Athletic take a trip to Ivybridge in their respective Devon Cup games. The Colts do have a friendly at home as they welcome Paignton to Pottington Road with a kick off time of 2.30pm
If you are travelling to watch the Chiefs Vs Exmouth this weekend then please be aware of this important parking information which has been sent to us from Exmouth RFC:
PLEASE NOTE
Exmouth Rugby Club now operates a vehicle parking system with ANPR, managed by SMART PARKING.
Match Day parking is restricted and is based on a first come, first served basis.
· Invited guests must record and validate their vehicle registration number on the Tablet placed in the club house.
· Visiting players, team & game officials must record and validate their vehicle registration number on the Tablet placed in the main changing block (or club house).
· We kindly request, all other vehicles purchase parking via RingGo. All paid parking on site contributes to support rugby at Exmouth.
Winston James 40 for Forty for North Devon Hospice
Chiefs head coach Winston James is ready to put himself through some serious endurance feats on a quest for North Devon hospice as he takes part in the 40 for forty charity event where he will be running 40 kilometres (that’s nearly 25 miles in old money) then it’s straight on a bicycle of another 40 km. We need every reader of this blog to put their hands in their pocket and give generously to this fantastic cause Winnie is putting himself through. We have all known someone who has been helped by those terrific people at North Devon Hospice and it has helped many former members over the years, so don’t be shy and let’s get Winston to his target.
Please click the banner below for full details on how you can support Winston
What a cracking if at times disjointed game we witnessed last Saturday full of adrenaline, a bit too much at the start, power, pace and excitement. The first half in particular saw the Chiefs 40-0 up by its end and many were thinking three digits, but having stepped off the gas a bit in the second half, especially after two very quick tries in the first five minutes took the game completely out of Chew Valleys reach the Chiefs did themselves no favours with two reds, one for a second yellow, the second a straight red.
Let’s go back to the start then where the players seemed so pumped up and straight from the kickoff Barnstaple got its first yellow as the receiving Chew Valley player was taken out in the air as he caught the ball. Less than 30 seconds into the game and the fireworks were starting. It didn’t take long though before Chew Valley decided to even the numbers with a yellow of their own and in less than 2 minutes we had ourselves a 14 v 14 game.
It was Barnstaple that made all the running and following a penalty line out for that yellow, they proceeded to drive the ball over the line with Viliame Kotobalavu dropping down to score. Two yellows and a try and barely three minutes had passed. There was no score for another twenty however, that was until the Chiefs felt more comfortable playing with 14, as another yellow card reduced their numbers at the 20 minute mark. With a Chew Valley scrum on their own 5 metre line Ben Jago and Haydn Gosling chased down their scrum half and bundled him into touch. This gave the Chiefs another driving maul from the lineout of which Ben Jago was the grateful recipient of touching the ball down for Barnstaple’s second.
At this point it was the pack that was making the headlines, gaining yards on almost every carry, great defensive tackles and they really did dominate their opposing pack. That was about to change however as the backs wanted more of the action. A break by Jake Murphy through the middle then a backhanded pass to the flying Cameron Grizzle-Johnson as he went under the posts unopposed scoring the first of his 5 tries. Another yellow kept the Chiefs at 14 but no matter as a few minutes later Tyler Gordon-Oke blocked a kick and Cameron was quickest to the free bouncing ball to again go under the posts. Another two minutes and just as Alex Penny thought he had scored only to be called back for a Barnstaple penalty, a quick tap and go by captain Jordan Petherbridge put him under the posts for the Chiefs fifth. Then right at the end of the half Jake Murphy got in on the act with a lovely dummy pass to set him clear in the corner for an easy try. At the break 40-0 up and looking good.
The second half was to be the Cameron Grizzle-Johnson show as with just five minutes gone he added two more tries, the second of which was a delight to see. Starting deep inside his own half Cameron danced his way past several attackers before releasing Alex penny who raced into Chews 22 dancing past a couple of tackles himself and with Cameron on his outside the result was inevitable as Alex returned the ball to Cameron and try number four for the winger was scored.
From this point the game got a bit messy as the Chiefs, with the game seemingly won, seemed to, as I said earlier, take their foot off the pedal a bit, giving Chew Valley too much of the ball and raising their hopes of scoring. This put pressure on the Chiefs and two reds in five minutes one for a second yellow , half way through the half did see the Chiefs have to play the last 25 minutes down to just 13 men. This helped Chew score a couple of tries to get 12 points of their own on the board but with the game out of sight Cameron added to his tally as JP broke through Chew’s defence to pass to Cameron clear of any defenders.
That’s how it ended folks a big win for the Chiefs 57-12, but, boy it could have been more if it wasn’t for those reds halfway through the second half. Now I know there are some teams out there that can get under the Chiefs skins and firmly believe Chew Valley are one of them, but at some point we really need to calm down, Last season it was a similar story with too many penalties giving them hope and we only scrapped that one by a point. This time though after the first 15 minutes used up all that excessive adrenaline the Chiefs were so much more assured with their passing, phase work and accuracy of play that piled on the pressure until the damn broke and boy did it break. With a bit more discipline, it could have gone into three figures.
This Saturday the Chiefs will have to focus much more on that side of things as they visit a resurgent Exmouth who have had the best possible start to the season already with three bonus point wins to sit them quite firmly at the top of the league. With wins over Sidmouth and Royal Wootton Bassett in their first two games, Exmouth had a massive game last Saturday as they travelled to Launceston. Leading at the break 12-16 Exmouth never gave up the lead as they won 26-37 in a game where nine tries were scored in a thriller of a match.
This result very much puts Exmouth in the contenders catergory and possible rekindles memories of that top of the table tussle in the between he two teams in the 2015/16 season where Exmouth won the title by just five points with both teams promoted to National 2 rugby.
The Chiefs line up see’s several changes with Ross Swales coming back in at scrum half . Brandon Moore is unavailable an so Arthur Marks starts with ViliameKotobalavu at No.8. On the bench Johny Carter dusts off his boots joined by Charlie Banefield and Ryan Lee.
It was a big day for Barnstaple Athletic as they prepared for their first road trip of the season to the undefeated Wiveliscombe, who had the previous week visited Pirates Amateurs beating them 17-20. So a big challenge and big rewards as a win here would propel the Tic’s into the top 6 of the league. Athletic came through this test with flying colours as they secured an impressive 20-7 away victory.
Athletic Played up the slope in the first half and almost scored within 5 minutes but were stopped by the home side’s defensive effort and managed to stop the attack close to the tryline. It wasn’t long though, before Joe Messenger had his say scoring Barnstaple’s first try after just 11 minutes. For the rest of the half it was the defences that were on top as neither team could make any further breakthroughs leaving Athletic leading by a slim five points at the break.
The second half Wiveliscombe got the better start with a converted try to take the lead 7-5 but it was short lived as Athletic’s pressure started to tell, causing the home side to give away a lot of penalties one of which was slotted by Tom Swales to regain the lead. The final 20 minutes belonged to Athletic as the probed further and a brace of tries by Ross Swales to secure what was a commanding performance, especially in the last 20 minutes that has propelled them up to fifth place in the Counties 1 Tribute Western West division, continuing their solid start to the season.
This Saturday, Athletic returns home to face the Cornishmen of St Ives (SW). This match presents a significant opportunity for Barnstaple to capitalise on their recent successes and potentially ascend further in the league standings.
St Ives kicked off their season with a narrow victory against Bude, winning 22-20 in a closely contested home fixture. However, since that promising start, they have faced challenges, suffering two consecutive losses that have left them looking to regain their form.
For the Tic’s, this game is a chance to further improve their strong teamwork and solidify their standing in the league. Conversely, St Ives will be eager to turn their fortunes around, a defeat could deepen their struggles this early in the season and they will be looking for any opportunities to plunder and spoil Athletic’s day. The match will undoubtedly be a test of resilience and tactical execution for both sides and for the supporters at the game we can expect an thunderous encounter filled with intensity, determination and some exciting rugby as each team strives to secure vital points in the league.
Athletic also have several changes including the arrival of Bertie Stretch, a once Barnstaple junior and colt who goes in as hooker with Jacob Mascall replacing the unavailable Josh Hill in a reshaped front row. Haydn Gosling starts at Scrum half with Troy Willis an Callum Morgan pairing in the centre for the first time. Here then are the Tic’s for todays game.
The Buccaneers
While the Colts rested last weekend, the Buccaneers again dominated their opposition, this time it was Topsham, as they put 8 tries past them to win 19-52. Jamie Arnold was the standout player, scoring an impressive 5 tries, while Llewyn Jago, Adi Turner, and Rob Parson each contributed with a try of their own. Llewyn also showcased his kicking skills by converting 6 of the tries, solidifying the team’s offensive prowess. This performance leaves no doubt that the Buccaneers are off to a flying start this season.
As they prepare for their upcoming match against the Nomads in Exmouth, the Buccaneers carry a wave of confidence and momentum. The team is eager to build on their recent success and aims to deliver another high-scoring performance. With their attacking strategy proving effective and a strong team spirit evident on the field, fans can expect an exhilarating match. The Buccaneers will look to maintain their form and continue their quest for victory in what promises to be another thrilling encounter.
The Colts
The Colts have experienced a rollercoaster start to their season, with a significant victory at Topsham followed by a disappointing loss at Devonport. The break in their schedule likely came as a welcome respite, allowing the team and coaching staff to thoroughly analyse both performances. This period of reflection has given them the opportunity to identify their strengths and pinpoint areas that require improvement.
Today’s match against Ivybridge Colts at Pottington Road presents a formidable challenge. Ivybridge has a well-established reputation for consistently producing high-calibre Colts sides, making them a respected opponent in the league. However, this encounter also serves as a prime opportunity for Barnstaple to showcase their true potential.
The home advantage at Pottington Road could prove crucial as Barnstaple. The familiar surroundings and support from local fans may provide the extra motivation needed to elevate their performance. The Colts will be eager to demonstrate their resilience and adaptability, applying the lessons learned from their recent games.
As the teams take to the field, all eyes will be on Barnstaple’s young talents. This match offers them a platform to prove their mettle against a traditionally strong Ivybridge side. A positive result today could serve as a boost to team morale and setting the tone for future fixtures. The Colts have the opportunity to remind everyone of their capabilities and make a statement about their ambitions for the rest of the campaign.
Here then is the teams for both Bucc’s and Colts
LAST ORDERS
Invitations are still open for the post of Club Bar and Events manager, if you believe you have the qualities and skills for this post and would like to know more click the following link Bar Manager.
There are also big opportunities for Bar Staff and cleaners at Barnstaple Rugby just email bookings.barnstaplerugby@gmail.com if you are interested.
Invitations are still open for the post of Club Bar and Events manager, if you believe you have the qualities and skills for this post and would like to know more click the following link Bar Manager.
There are also big opportunities for Bar Staff and cleaners at Barnstaple Rugby just email bookings.barnstaplerugby@gmail.com if you are interested.
Another weekend is nearly upon us and I’m looking forward to having next weekend off, which means no blog folks. As mentioned earlier the Chiefs are at Crediton for the Devon Seniors cup match and Athletic visit Ivybridge to face thier 2nd XV in the Devon 2nd XV cup.
Pottington Road does have a friendly for the Colts who welcome Paignton Colts here kick is 2.30pm. The it’s all systems go the following weekend when Oktoberfest will be in full swing after the Chiefs have played Ivybridge.
The game kicks off at 2.30 and the festivities will continue late into the night with live music German beer and food. There is still plenty of time to grab your tickets which you can get by clicking the link of the poster.
Good luck to all our teams playing today four from four wins would be absolutely awesome. Let’s get a big crowd down at Pottington Road for Athletic who are playing some exceptional rugby at the moment and really ramp up the volume. Catch up in a fortnight.
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