Chiefs Colts Victorious in Top of the Table Clash

Exeter Chiefs Colts v Devonport Colts

Chiefs came into this match knowing what a strong outfit Devonport are, fully deserving their top spot in the shield competition. This would turn out to be a classic rugby match between the top two teams.

Devonport started very well, their lads physically bigger than Chiefs but not as efficient or fast. The visitors were awarded early penalties but were unable to put any points on the board. After ten minutes and following a breakdown at a Devonport scrum, Chiefs secured the ball and quickly moved it along the back line for Stefan Bryant to run in on the wing. George Bird converted for a 7-0 lead. Devonport's forwards were being matched by the Chiefs pack but the continued pressure and a rare mistake from Chiefs enabled them to bundle over for a halftime score of 7-7.

In the return fixture earlier in the season Chiefs suffered with an unrelentless Devonport onslaught and it seemed that this might happen again when they took the lead following a turnover at a maul. More pressure from Devonport was alleviated when the ball was rescued deep in Chiefs half from a scrum and chased up field by Mark Peters only to be denied as the ball tricked over the dead ball line. Chiefs were now determined and following a run from Luke Mingo he passed out to Stefan Bryant for his second try.

Tom Plance then added to the Chiefs score after a jinking run that eluded the tiring Devonport defence for a lead of 19-12. Devonport's tactics at lineout's close to the try line were well rehearsed and they were awarded with a try to set up a thrilling finish. It was Chiefs who were dominating and they added a further try from Matt Handford to which Devonport quickly replied to make the score 26-22 with minutes remaining.

The Chiefs held out to the delight of the crowd and coaches for a brilliant win against all the odds.