Newton Abbot deliver their very best in defeat of Paignton Cherries

It has been far from plain sailing for Newton Abbot Rugby Club this season but spring arrived with arguably the strongest performance yet in a rousing defeat of high-flying Paignton.

The victory was made even sweeter by the inclusion of Colts Hudson Edkins, Laurence White and Barney Stancombe, who all made a superb impression in their senior debuts for the club.

“It feels really good,” said Newton’s Jake Monnington. “We’ve had a couple of Colts come into the team and they’ve made a real impact. If we can keep them around, the future looks bright. We’ve got young lads running around and shining in a tough environment, which is very exciting.”

Ben Rockey was named man of the match for the All Whites following a “dominant all-round performance from Ben, who made his presence felt across the entire pitch in both attack and defence. Capping off a brilliant display, he also managed to cross the line a couple times.”

Newton Abbot’s U18 Girls just fell short in a thrilling Devon Plate Final, losing 22-29 to Devonport Services but the club’s Director of Sport Simon Coburn said: “Couldn’t be prouder of the squad. All you ever ask is that players turn up and give everything they’ve got, and they did that and more.

“We really took the game to them. There was huge heart, real passion, and a genuine sense of playing for each other throughout. On another day, that’s a game we could easily have come out on top in.

“A big thank you to all the players, parents, and coaches for their hard work and commitment across the season.”

It was a top weekend of rugby for Okehampton, with victories for the men, women and Colts.

The Oke men hosted Wadebridge Camels, who are just one place above them in the table, but the visitors were unable to withstand a home onslaught, as Okehampton ran out 36-24 victors, while the Colts won 14-7 at Tavistock.

However, the biggest moment came at Yeovil, where a 31-10 for Oke Women took them to within one more victory of securing the league title. It was a massive game in Somerset with Yeovil the only title challengers to Oke but there was only one winner on the day, and a brilliant season will be capped if they can secure maximum points at home to bottom club Avonmouth on April 25.