Bideford locked in rugby survival fight

Barnstaple RFC were in free-scoring mode on the weekend, as the Chiefs overpowered Ivybridge with a 68-16 victory in South Devon, while Barum Athletic defeated Exmouth Quins 41-0.

Bideford Chiefs were also on the road at St Ives and went down 22-7 in an entertaining game. The hosts started brightly and surged into a 7-0 lead before Bideford took control of proceedings, dominating the first half for long periods.

The reward came with a Pete Bowes try, Mitch Harris slotting the conversion. St Ives added a penalty to lead 10-7 at the break and were placed under severe pressure from the Chiefs in the second half, but Bideford were unable to take their chances. St Ives gave the scoreline a flattering look with two late tries.

Manager Bradley Goaman said: “It was another game that got away from us and that's the story of our season. We had five entries into the 22 and held up over the line twice, we have to be more clinical.

“It was a frustrating game for us because we turned up, put a lot into this game but mistakes in key areas killed us. Our fight is there, our spirit is there but our accuracy is missing and that needs to change very quickly because we are now in a relegation battle with six games to go.

“Brodi Wilson and Richard Norman were class on the day and deserve a pat on the back. We are home this week and it's a must win game.”

Bideford Quins defeated Crediton 3rds 26-17 but the Colts suffered a defeat at home to Brixham. 

South Molton battled their way to a 14-10 victory over Devonport Services, while Ilfracombe surged to a 40-0 victory over a depleted Honiton 2nds, Jacob Mascall and Aaron Stainer both scoring doubles for the Combe.