Many a previous encounter with Devonport Services has delivered a feast of rugby, and Saturday was no exception.

Exmouth continued their great form from the previous week and ran out winners on Past Players Day. Lewis Geran led the way with a hat-trick, the second week in a row.

Tries were also scored by James Clarke, who crossed first on 12 minutes, Geran next and then George Meadows, after a period of phase play that saw forwards taking the play in different directions until the crash from Meadows. With a penalty also, the Cockles led 18-6 at the break.

The large crowd knew this game would continue to excite during the second period. Geran added his second try after eight minutes with Meadows extras, a scoreline gap opened to 25-6.

Ben Hawley muscled over on 55 minutes, 30-3 with Geran hot stepping over the try line to complete his trio, 35-13. One conversion from six tries would have pushed the score higher, however wasn’t critical.

The visitors were industrious around the pitch and were looking to create at every opportunity but the Exmouth defence was pretty solid before the odd gap allowed late tries from Joe Daley, Kieran Down and Luke Stannard with eight points from the boot of Richard Goldsby-West making the final score 35-23. Devonport staged their fight for league points at the end, hunting two bonus points but they left empty-handed.

All round a strong team performance across the board, all areas working together to create some lovely rugby to watch. Past Players Mike Loaring (back) and Gary Sharland (forward) presented joint Man of the Match to young guns George Mears and Jack Hamilton. Both displayed skills and support throughout game time. Next up is a trip to Drybrook in the heart of the Forest of Dean, always a tough away day.

Exmouth Quins prepared for this weekend’s derby clash against Withycombe by recording a fine 22-10 victory at North Tawton, with Ben Berkhout scoring two tries, Jake Sharp one and Rich Cadywould kicking seven points.

The Withycombe derby kicks-off at 2.30pm and should be a great afternoon of rugby in the heart of the town, entry £3 for non-members (cash only please). Nomads are also at home against Crediton. The Bar, Food Shed and BBQ will be open.

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