Good evening, everyone and welcome back to the blog. Another set of matches to chalk off as we hurtle towards the end of the regular season and it’s poised to deliver a weekend of unparalleled excitement. This weekend is a blockbuster showdown you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned as we break down what’s at stake and why this could be one for the history books.
This Saturday, the Chiefs are back at Pottington Road, and they’re ready to roll out the red carpet for Royal Wootton Bassett, who are making their first-ever visit to our hallowed grounds. This Regional One South West clash is proudly sponsored by the fantastic Ian Tucker, associate partner at St. James Place, thank you for your incredible support! And let’s not forget, we’ve got the fabulous Barnstaple Rugby Ladies joining us for their annual Ladies Day! It’s going to be a day full of passion, and, of course, top-tier rugby. We hope you’re as pumped as we are for what promises to be an unforgettable Saturday!
Meanwhile, Athletic are hitting the road today, riding high on a 10 game winning streak after last week’s dominant performance against Redruth II to keep the pressure on Pirates Amateurs. The Bucc’s and Colts are also on the move today. The Bucc’s are heading to Honiton, while the Colts are making their way to Devonport.
Now, let’s talk about the big events coming up, because they’re huge! Next weekend, it’s the Devon Senior Cup Final, and the buzz is already building! We’ll find out later today whether we’ll be facing Brixham or Sidmouth, so keep those eyes peeled for that news later today! The action kicks off at Pottington Road at 2 PM next Saturday and you know it’s going to be a spectacle.
***UPDATE***
Brixham at the last minute have decided not to contest the semi-final this weekend and so it is Barnstaple Chiefs v Sidmouth for the Devon Senior Cup Final Next weekend, Pottington Road 2pm
And for all you rugby fanatics, the Six Nations is back! On Sunday, England will be taking on Italy at Twickenham, but the real headline act is the colossal clash between Ireland and France on Saturday at 2:15 PM. Expect fireworks, drama, and some of the best rugby the Northern Hemisphere has to offer!
But wait—there’s more! On April 12th, the Papa John’s Community Cup kicks off, and the question on everyone’s lips is: Can the Chiefs make it to the final again this season? Their first challenge? A thrilling rematch against Launceston right here at Pottington Road. These two teams have history, and you can bet they’ll be leaving it all on the pitch in their quest to reach Twickenham. It’s going to be an absolute barnstormer! Kick off for that game will be 2.30pm.
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of how the teams are shaping up for this weekend’s games, we’ve got some huge thank-yous and massive round of applause for Aaron Rundle, who went above and beyond who supplied and erected a temporary away team dugout for us.
THANK YOU TO AARON RUNDLE!
A massive shoutout to Aaron Rundle, who supplied and erected a temporary away team dugout for us. Aaron is currently a junior coach, still pulls his boots on for the Bucc’s occasionally, and even sponsors two members of our senior squad.
Thank you, Aaron, for going above and beyond for the club!
Also, a big thanks to the senior players who assisted in building it—your help is always appreciated!
Barnstaple Athletic v Redruth II photos
Chiefs grab another 5 points at Sidmouth
Last Saturday, the Chiefs made the journey to Sidmouth with a clear mission: to secure all five points from the match to maintain pressure on league rivals Brixham. However, they were well aware that this would be no easy feat. Sidmouth had enjoyed a solid season on their home turf, and the Chiefs knew this encounter would be far more challenging than their previous meeting earlier in the season, when Sidmouth had visited Pottington Road. The match proved to be just as demanding as anticipated, particularly in the first half.
From the opening whistle, Sidmouth came out with intent, dominating possession and putting the Chiefs under immediate pressure. Their efforts were rewarded within just five minutes as they slotted a penalty to take an early 3-0 lead. The Chiefs, however, responded with resilience. Ten minutes later, Tyler Gordon-Oke broke through Sidmouth’s defense to score a well-executed try, which was successfully converted, putting Barnstaple ahead 3-7. Despite Sidmouth’s continued efforts to regain control, the Chiefs’ defense stood firm, repelling the home side. A late penalty from Tyler extended Barnstaple’s lead, and they headed into halftime with a narrow but hard-fought 3-10 advantage.
The second half, however, saw a shift in momentum as the Chiefs began to take control of the game. Their forwards began dictating the pace and creating opportunities. Bertie Stretch was the first to capitalize, crossing the line for a try that extended Barnstaple’s lead. This was quickly followed by another try from Arthur Marks, showcasing the team’s growing confidence and cohesion. Brandon Moore then put the icing on the cake with a third try of the half, securing not only the win but also the crucial bonus point. The Chiefs’ clinical finishing and relentless pressure saw them pull away from Sidmouth, ultimately sealing a commanding 10-29 victory.
After a challenging first half, the Chiefs regrouped and delivered a stronger second-half performance. The win not only kept them in the hunt for the title but also served as a statement of intent as the season enters its critical stages. With another game chalked off and five points in the bag, the Chiefs can now turn their attention to the next challenge, knowing that performances like this will be key to achieving their ambitions.
This Saturday, the Chiefs return to the familiar surroundings of their home ground as they prepare to host Royal Wootton Bassett in what promises to be another gripping and hard-fought encounter. The visitors, hailing from Swindon, have enjoyed a commendable season since their promotion last year from Regional 2 Severn, and they arrive with a point to prove.
Royal Wootton Bassett’s campaign began in impressive fashion, with three wins from their first four matches, signaling their intent to compete at a higher level. However, their momentum wavered slightly during a mid-season dip, where they managed just one victory in six games. This challenging period included a heavy 7-47 defeat at the hands of the Chiefs when the two sides last met. Despite this setback, they have shown remarkable resilience and determination, bouncing back to secure six wins from their last nine matches, cementing their future in Regional 1 South West. Among these victories were notable triumphs over strong sides like Exmouth and Launceston, as well as a nail-biting performance against league leaders Brixham, where they narrowly lost by a single point in a fiercely contested match in Brixham’s own backyard.
Currently sitting in fifth place in the league table, Royal Wootton Bassett have proven themselves to be a strong opponent in their debut season at this level. Their ability to adapt and compete against established teams has been a testament to their quality and spirit. This Saturday, they will undoubtedly be aiming to solidify their position in the top half of the table and perhaps even seek redemption for their earlier defeat to the Chiefs.
For the Chiefs, this match represents another crucial step in their pursuit of league success. Having already demonstrated their dominance over Royal Wootton Bassett earlier in the season, they will be eager to replicate that performance and secure another vital win. However, they will be well aware that their opponents have grown in confidence and capability since their last meeting, and complacency is not an option.
The stage is set for an enthralling clash between two teams with plenty to play for. The Chiefs will look to leverage their home advantage and continue their push for the top, while Royal Wootton Bassett will be determined keep their 5th place in the league. With both sides boasting talent, determination, and a hunger for victory, this encounter promises to be a thrilling spectacle.
The team is unchanged for this match with the only exception is a fit again Ross Swales joins them from the bench, here then is your Chiefs to face Royal Wootton Bassett.
Barnstaple Athletic Dominate Redruth 2ndXV in Stunning 40-7 Victory, Extend Unbeaten Run to 10 Games in Historic Debut Season
Last Saturday was looking to be a particularly hard test for Athletic as they prepared to welcome to Pottington Road the last team to beat them this season, Redruth 2ndXV. With a much more recognisable squad they were minus a scrum half and so the fly half Luke Knight took on the unfamiliar role as the squad took to the field ready to extend their 9 game unbeaten run.
That’s exactly how it looked for the first 20 minutes as Athletic with all the possession and territory pressed hard to get their first try only to be thwarted by a very good and determined defence. Brendan Darley went over first following a successful maul from a lineout.
Redruth finally got into the Chiefs half to exert their own pressure following that try and were getting some success, but a scrum to the Tic’s and a quick pass to Conner Swan whose amazing 80 yard run for the Chiefs second try seemed to knock the wind out of Redruths sails and from that point Barnstaple Athletic were in control. A try from Ollie James set up by another dazzling run from Connor and with all three converted by Harvey Rostock, Athletic headed in 21-0 up at the break.
Despite my own fears that Athletic might ease off the gas that was never going to be the case as they continued to play some really good rugby dominating both possession and territory throughout the second half. Three more second half tries from Liam Ducker, Alex Macmillan and Elijah Brizendine secured the win and bonus point with Harvey Rostock converting a further two out of three tries. Redruth did grab a consultation try towards the end and the game finished 40-7.
Another crucial victory for the Tics as they keep the heat on league leaders Pirates Amateurs, maintaining their relentless pursuit of the top spot. This win becomes even more significant in light of Paignton’s recent stumble, as they were held to a draw at Kingsbridge. As a result, Barnstaple Athletic now enjoy a four-point cushion in second place, though Paignton still holds the advantage of a game in hand. The race for the title remains tightly contested, and every point is proving invaluable as the season reaches its climax.
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the context: this is Barnstaple Athletic’s debut season in Tier 7 rugby. To be guaranteed a top-three finish with three games still to play is a testament to the team’s hard work, determination, and quality. It’s a milestone that deserves to be celebrated in style.
Week after week, they have risen to the challenge, showcasing their ability to compete with the best in the league. Their consistency has been key, currently on a 10 game winning streak which includes wins over Plymstock Oaks and at Paignton, and with each passing game, they are proving that they belong among the frontrunners.
As the season approaches its final stages, whether the Tics can close the gap on Pirates Amateurs or hold off Paignton to secure second place remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: this has already been a historic campaign for Barnstaple Athletic. The players, coaches, and supporters can take immense pride in what they have achieved so far. When the final whistle blows on the season, there will undoubtedly be a celebration to remember.
Before all that though there is today’s trip to Bude and a very important challenge for Athletic. Last time these two met at Pottington Road is was a fiercly contest match with the Tic’s running out eventual winners 31-22. with Athlewtic leading at half time by just 2 points, 7-5, they could never shake of Bude’s response and the game was never more than a converted try between the two team until with just a couple of minutes to go Ryan Jago crossed the line to make the win certain.
So this is going to be a real challenge for Athletic, since that match Bude have won three of their last four games and look to be back to their best. Athletic are going to need to be at their very best for this one and put in a full 80 minutes. The team to do just that has several changes with Haydn Gosling back at scrum half, Luke Knight moves to full back and the welcome return of Josh Hill and Dylan Kingdon on the bench.
The Buccaneers win against Crediton III provides a tantalising final three games
The Buccaneers faced one of their biggest challenges of the season, but also an opportunity filled with immense excitement and potential, as they welcomed Merit Table leaders Crediton 3rd XV to Pottington Road. With just 11 points separating the two sides and the Bucc’s holding a game in hand, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. A bonus-point victory was essential to keep their title hopes alive, and the team rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion.
In a fiercely contested match between two evenly matched sides, the Buccaneers showcased their determination and skill to secure a hard-fought 26-21 victory, complete with the all-important bonus point. The win closed the gap on Crediton to just seven points, with that crucial game still to play. The result has injected fresh momentum into the Bucc’s campaign, reigniting their hopes of catching the league leaders.
While the Bucc’s have done their part, the season is far from over, and the title race remains delicately poised. Crediton still have a challenging fixture ahead, as they are set to travel to Ilfracombe, who could potentially do their North Devon neighbours a favor by taking points off the leaders. As the drama unfolds, one thing is certain: this season has been a rollercoaster ride for the Buccaneers, filled with challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments. Whatever happens in the coming weeks, the Bucc’s journey this season is far from over.
Today the Bucc’s are heading to Honiton knowing nothing short of a full five points bagged in required if they are to keep the pressure on Crediton with just three games remaining.
Colts Edge Closer to Glory: Narrow 25-24 Defeat at Ivybridge Yields Crucial Bonus Points, Sets Stage for Season-Defining Clash Against Newton Abbot
It was a heart-stoppingly close encounter for the Colts as they came within a whisker of securing a memorable victory over Ivybridge on their home turf. Having already defeated Ivybridge earlier in the season at Pottington Road, the Colts were determined to complete a double over their rivals. Ivybridge is always a challenging place to visit, but the Colts rose to the occasion, putting in a performance full of grit and determination. In the end, they fell just short, losing by the narrowest of margins, 25-24. However, their efforts were not in vain, as they walked away with two crucial bonus points that could prove pivotal in the final standings.
Those two bonus points are more significant than they might initially appear. They keep the Colts’ points tally ticking over at a critical stage of the season, maintaining their momentum in what has been a fiercely competitive campaign. Unfortunately, the lack of an updated league table from Devon Rugby has left fans and followers in the dark about the exact standings. However, based on my own calculations—admittedly not the most reliable—the Colts currently hold a six-point advantage over Newton Abbot Colts, whom they are set to face at home in their final league game of the season. Additionally, they have a seven-point cushion over Ivybridge, though Ivybridge still have a game in hand, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the run-in.
The importance of those two bonus points cannot be overstated. Not only did they keep the Colts’ points total moving in the right direction, but the team’s resolute defence also denied Ivybridge a try bonus point from the match. This small but significant detail could have major implications as the season reaches its climax. Every point matters in such a tightly contested league, and the Colts’ ability to grind out results, even in defeat, speaks volumes about their character and determination.
As the season heads into its final stages, the Colts find themselves in a strong position, but there is still work to be done. The upcoming home game on March 15th against Newton Abbot Colts looms large as a potential decider, while Ivybridge’s game in hand adds an element of uncertainty. One thing is certain, though: the Colts have shown they have the quality and resilience to compete with the best, and their performances this season have been a source of immense pride for the club and its supporters.
This Saturday, the Colts face a crucial test as they head to Devonport, looking for the win to ensure they are in prime position ahead of next weekend’s high-stakes clash against Newton Abbot. It’s been a phenomenal season for the young squad, one defined by their ability to rise to the occasion and thrive under pressure. With the campaign reaching its climax, the Colts are determined to seize every opportunity and continue their remarkable journey.
Well that’s it from me for this weekend. Don’t forget it’s cup final day next Saturday and what a game it will be. We will know the opponets late on Saturday but for now enjoy your weekend full of rugby and I’ll catch up with you with a cup speial next weekend.
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