Ilfracombe triumph in the North Devon derby

North Devon rugby glory was reserved for Ilfracombe RFC on the weekend after a gripping 31-29 victory over Bideford 2nds.

A superb hat-trick of tries from Max Davies proved crucial for the Combe, with Aaron Stainer and Nathan Townsend also dotting down in a tremendous match that was sadly as good as it got for the Bideford men, with the first-team slipping to a 15-76 loss at home to Plymstock Oaks.

Bideford RFC Ladies travelled to Topsham for an engrossing Devon derby that ended in a painful 29-26 defeat. Ruth Boundy dotted down first for Bideford but Topsham hit back with a strong spell before Sarah Taylor-Salkeld scored again for the red and whites.

Chloe Roissetter was next to score and Mollie Osment was having a strong day with the boot but Topsham were also consistent in getting points on the board. Tessa Cleave scored the final Bideford try before a late home surge secured a breathless win for Topsham.

Bideford vice captain penned this message to her team: “Well done ladies! Everyone left their heart and soul on that pitch, you should all be proud of yourself and your team! Everyone stepped up and showed what they are capable of.

“Now time to work on individual goals and team goals throughout the week. Sorting out our kick offs and running more moves like today at training with that 100% energy that was shown today.”

Barnstaple Chiefs travelled to Brixham for what turned out to be an outstanding Devon derby. The Fishermen were celebrating the unveiling of a blue plaque to commemorate 150 years of rugby in Brixham but Barum battled brilliantly to score a late try in earning a 17-17 draw.

On home turf, Barnstaple Athletic produced a ruthless display in dismantling Tavistock 74-7, with Alex Macmillan carving through the visitors to score an incredible five tries. Captain Ollie James also scored a hat-trick and there was a double for Ryan Jago.

Barnstaple Buccaneers swept past Torrington with a 53-0 victory but it was a tough weekend for South Molton, who went down to a bruising loss at a powerful Torquay side.