Barum keep up the pressure in promotion drama

Whatever the outcome in this incredible rugby season, Barnstaple and Brixham deserve immense credit for providing one of the most thrilling finales possible in the Regional 1 Tribute SW Division.

Only one point separates the top two and with only one place available for promotion, Brixham know they must secure bonus-point wins to hold off the Barum challenge.

While the Fishermen did their job with a solid 39-12 victory at Matson, Barnstaple kept up their end of the bargain with a 29-10 triumph at Sidmouth, overpowering their hosts with the exciting brand of rugby that has been a treat to fans all season.

Sidmouth actually notched the first points with an early penalty but the Barum response was brutal and emphatic. Tyler Gordon-Oke scored a try, converted his own try, and then added a penalty for good measure to make the score 3-10.

Brandon Moore was next to cross for the Chiefs and a third try from Arthur Marks effectively ended the game as a contest. Crucially, Moore added the fourth for a bonus point and Sidmouth’s late try was a mere consolation.

Three more games to go, and plenty of drama guaranteed.

In stark contrast, Bideford Chiefs look virtually certain to finish bottom of the Counties 1 Tribute Western West Division after suffering another difficult defeat, this time going down 52-20 at Wiveliscombe.

It is a different story for Barnstaple Athletic in the same division, as they cruised to a 40-7 win over Redruth to remain just four points behind leaders Pirates Amateurs.

Brendan Daryl bagged the first try for the Tics, quickly followed by Connor Swan, with both tries converted by Harvey Rostock. Ollie James, Liam Ducker, Alex McMillan and Elijah Brizendine extended the lead to 40-0 before Redruth grabbed a late consolation. This division could come down to the final day, when Barum make the trip to the Pirates.

South Molton suffered a 32-26 defeat at Exmouth 2nds in the Counties 2 Tribute Devon SW Division and face a scrap with Tamar Saracens and Dartmouth to ensure they don’t slip into the bottom three.

In the Devon Merit 1 NE Division, Ilfracombe won a terrific North Devon derby at Bideford Quins 33-24, with Adam Bambridge, Ellis Rees, Pita Raiqeu and Alipate Biaudamu (2) scoring the Combe tries.

Barnstaple Buccaneers, in second, kept up their title aspirations with a 26-21 win over leaders Crediton 3rds, and Barum have a game in hand.