Dramatic draw for Bideford Chiefs and a derby day win for the Quins

Bideford RFC travelled to leaders Devonport Services looking to continue their good form on the weekend, and a thrilling game ended 17-17.

Bideford took the lead through Ashley Crouch, a new signing from Barnstaple. The visitors went further ahead again through Crouch again but Devonport Services hit back to trail 10-7.

In a rollercoaster half, Reece Pearn converted his own try, as the Chiefs led 17-14 at the break. The second half was an even contest but with 10 minutes to go, Bideford gave away a penalty in front of the posts and Devonport levelled the game.

“The try they scored hurt before half time, put a bit of a hole in us unfortunately, and second half we could not build any momentum,” said Bideford boss Bradley Goaman.

“When we had the ball and started to apply pressure, we turned it over too easily but I have to congratulations the players because you can always rely on them giving a great amount of physical effort and desire and they had bags of that. We are home this week against Dartmouth.”

Elsewhere at the club, Bideford RFC Quins beat Ilfracombe 25-5 in an impressive performance.