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ADAM MUDGE
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COLIN CHAMPION
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23rd April 2011 BRIXHAM 28 PORTSMOUTH 33

17th April 2011 BRIXHAM 47 CULLOMPTON 12 (Devon Plate)
A glorious day at Ivybridge - perfect for a Cup Final.
From the kick off it was clear that Cullompton had a fine set of backs who were keen to run the ball at every opportunity. Cully started the brighter and soon got on top. However attacks were repelled but Brixham could not get their hands on the ball. Eventually the deadlock was broken by a superb run from the Cully star centre touching down for a converted try.
Cullompton stayed in the driving seat but Brixham were beginning to get some forward momentum and for the first time got their game together in the opposition 22. After three forward drives the defence was broken and flanker Todd Lowry ran in. Converted by scrum half Tom Akery to level the scores.
Despite this Cullompton stayed on top and continued to press. Their superb lineout was functioning perfectly giving their dangerous backs plenty of quality ball. This led to their second try when their winger broke through some poor tackling to score wide out. Brixham slowly began to impose their bigger forwards on the game and in the final five minutes of the first half scored two tries – both through Lowry, claiming a first half hat trick. Both were converted by Akery for a Brixham interval lead of 21-12
The second half was a different story. It appeared that the Brixham forwards had worn down Cully. Cullompton's supply of ball dried up and their few attacks were nullified by the excellent work of openside flanker Sam Unwin and centres Joe Smith and Jordan Green. Indeed the Brixham backs were now playing their part and the next try was a fine handling movement ending up with left winger Mike Meech going in at the corner. A forward drive ended up with second row Jim Champion diving over to extend the lead before a great line by centre Joe Smith saw him finish a move off with a fine try. With the last move of the game prop Joel Armitage ran in to perform his version of the Ashton Splash !! FINAL SCORE 47.12.

Both teams played the game in an excellent spirit which was evident after the final whistle with the congratulations given by both teams for their opponents.

3rd April 2011 BRIXHAM 41 TOPSHAM 23 (Devon Plate Semi-final)
Sunday morning provided a vastly entertaining match between two committed teams and a great advertisement for youth rugby.
Brixham took an early lead. A lineout to the visitors 10metres out was disrupted and from the ensuing ruck hooker Harry Welch powered over in the corner for the opening try. An early setback but Topsham started to dominate. Astute kicking and ball retention enabled them to pen Brixham back. Two penalty goals put them in front before some poor Brixham tackling enabled them to score a try under the posts. A brief period of Brixham pressure resulted in Welch scoring his second try but Topsham were on top and replied with a third penalty goal. In the dying minutes of the first half Brixham mounted another attack - and scored their third try. Having disrupted a Topsham scrum ten metres out a rolling maul took the forwards over the line with flanker Todd Lowry touching down.
Brixham turned round 16-15 behind but from the kick-off Topsham ran the ball back at, and through, the Brixham defence for a converted try - just the start Brixham did not need! In the second half Brixham began to reduce the error count and control the game to a greater extent - though the Topsham backs always looked dangerous. The visitors' lead was back to a single point after flanker Lowry peeled away from a lineout to go through from 20 metres out. Akery converting the try under the posts.
With play almost wholly in the Topsham half the Brixham pressure began to tell. Joel Armitage touched down for the Fishermen's fifth try after a 5 metre scrum and No 8 Elliot Bryant added the sixth. Akery's conversion put Brixham eleven points ahead with ten minutes remaining and the game could still have gone either way.
Brixham snuffed out the Topsham attacks and closed the game with a seventh try - Bryants offload fom a 5metre scrum putting scrum-half Akery in for a try which he also converted.
Brixham will meet Crediton on April 17th in the final - at Ivybridge.

20th March 2011 BRIXHAM v KINGSBRIDGE

No photos of kickers - click here for video!

March 13th 2011 TORQUAY 19 BRIXHAM 15
A much depleted Brixham team travelled to Torquay knowing they needed to win to stay at the top of the table. However Wednesday nights game against Devonport accounted for 5 injured, and there were two other players unavailable, giving a total of 7 out.
This had an undoubted effect in the first half as Brixham's players seemed unable to get to grips with playing out of position. Indeed No 8 Elliot Bryant made his first ever start in the second row, hooker Callum Hamill was on the flank, and prop Joel Armitage was in the centre.
Torquay made a flying start and scored their first try in the first few minutes. Brixham then settled a little although they had to defend against continued Torquay attacks. From a scrum in the home 22 scrum half Tom Akery found a gap in the defensive back line to score by the corner flag.
Torquay then made it 14-5 just before half time, and deservedly went in in front.
Almost from the kick off Torquay scored again to make it 19-5, but for the last half an hour it was almost all Brixham. Pressure, though, could not be turned into enough points. Brixham did notch a try in the corner from Elliot Bryant after a continuous passage of play led to a break down the blind side.
However much Brixham had possession they could not close the gap further. A rare Torquay attack was stopped when Brixham full back Craig Armstrong intercepted and raced the length of the field to touch down. Even though it was under the posts Akery missed the conversion and Torquay defended their line to the end.
Brixham were not outplayed despite all the unavailabilities and those that played should hold their heads up high. Credit should go to all the lads for the way they played in the second half – they would not give up.

9th March DEVONPORT SERVICES 43 BRIXHAM 19 (Played at Brixham)
Brixham put up an excellent performance against the team who are favourites for the Fishermans Cup (and sprinkled with county players, regional trialists and England front row players). They did themselves proud and proved to everyone how much they had improved this season. The large crowd enjoyed a fabulous game and a fine example of youth rugby.
Indeed Brixham scored first. They started really positively getting on the front foot and with captain and scrum half Tom Akery directing play superbly soon moved into the Services' 22. Having refused a kickable penalty Akery tapped and nearly made the line, but prop Joel Armitage picked up from the base of the ruck to charge over from 5 yards. Converted by Akery.
It became clear that Devonport had some excellent runners outside and in the 10th minute they got over wide out; converted from a difficult angle to level the scores.
Brixham continued to play some excellent rugby in the Services half and were rewarded with 2 penalties. Unfortunately Akery missed both difficult chances to Brixham in front and in the 21st and 30th minutes Devonport got clear to score 2 further tries, one from their forwards and the other from the winger. Both converted.
However Brixham were not taking it lying down and hit back with a try before half time by Akery who spotted a gap in the visitors back line. Services knocked over a penalty with the last kick of the half to lead 24-12 at the break.
The second half saw some superbly committed rugby from both teams. Brixham battled for every ball and carried well, especially through forwards Armitage, Todd Lowry, Elliott Bryant and Matt Harvey. It was a big loss for Brixham to lose second row Harvey with a leg injury which disrupted their line out options. However Services could only muster a further two tries, the second of which was a flowing move and the best try of the game. Both were converted by their kicker who was having an excellent night.
Brixham regathered behind the posts and came back once more at Devonport. Backs and forwards combined to set up Armitage who again crashed over from close range under the posts, Converted by Akery.
The last word went to Services who, with Brixham tiring, scored the final try – the kicker proved he was human as he missed this conversion!!

Credit to all the Brixham players, especially the front row of Liam Milton, Harry Welch and Joel Armitage who were never upstaged by their “England” opposites and indeed held their own giving Brixham the platform they needed to keep attacking from all areas. Services also paid Brixham a huge compliment after the game and pointed out that this was the best game they had played all year and even saying that it was the first time they had conceded 3 tries.

6th March 2011 TAVISTOCK 5 BRIXHAM 24 (Devon Plate Q/F)
With both teams only having 15 players things were always going to be tight, but from the start Brixham got on top through the forwards and were stopped on the Tavistock goal line on a number of occasions. Brixham kept this pressure up but could not get through the excellent home defence. Against the grain, Tavistock stole the ball and from the half way line managed to get through the Brixham defence to score in the corner but could not convert.
From the restart Brixham put more pressure on Tavistock and were virtually camped on the try line for the rest of the half. After good pressure centre Joe Smith managed to dive over for a try to bring the scores level.
Brixham finally woke up in the second half and once more set up camp in the Tavistock half. For the first twenty minutes the Tavistock defence was excellent but Joe Smith broke the deadlock. From a charged down defensive kick he touched down in the corner for Brixham's second try ( again unconverted).
Five mins later after the pack drove from the halfway line to the 22, Joel Armitage broke free and powered over for a try under the posts to give Craig Armstrong a relatively easy kick for the extras.
The match was sealed when an excellent run from Todd Lowry through the stretched Tavistock defence resulted in a try under the posts and another conversion for Armstrong.
The last few minutess were very scrappy for both teams and a couple of yellow cards (one for each team) seemed to finish the game off.

27th February 2011 BRIXHAM 53 NEWTON ABBOT 3

Two Views:

After their good win last week at Ivybridge, Brixham started the game against Newton on Sunday in somewhat lethargic mode. On the sloping school pitch, and in driving rain, they struggled to impose themselves in the first half. Handling errors and concession of penalties did not help their cause but they turned around 10-3 ahead thanks to tries by Adam Allery and Elliot Bryant.
In the second period the sun came out and their play showed marked improvement. Unconverted tries from Joe Smith and Jack Tiltman doubled their score. With the handling mistakes reduced they made increasing inroad into the visitors' defence. Strong running from flanker Todd Lowry brought him a brace of tries; Tom Akery eventually found his kicking boots to convert both.
Mack Lewis found a gap to run through for Brixham's seventh try and with Newton tiring the scoring was rounded off by Akery bagging a brace of tries - both of which he converted.

After last weeks victory away at Ivybridge, Brixham were in confident mood ahead of the visit by their mid-table visitors on a very wet and windy day at Astley Park. Perhaps they were a little over confident as it soon became apparent that Newton Abbot were not going to just roll over. Indeed it was Newton that started the better and they were soon on the board with a penalty after 5 minutes.
Even if that was the wake up call Brixham needed, they still found it very difficult to get on top of Newton who were playing very well. After 10 mins Brixham did get on the scoreboard. They managed to get some phases going, sucked in the defence, and spun it wide where second row Adam Allery was lurking to run over and score in the corner. The rest of the half was very even and both sides missed opportunities to score. The driving rain did make it very difficult for handling. However with the last scrum of the half Brixham No 8 Elliot Bryant dived over to make the half time score 10.3.
Some harsh words at half time seemed to galvanise the Brixham forwards and they started to get on the front foot. However it was the backs who stole the limelight with a try from centre Joe Smith and the try of the match from substitute winger Jack Tiltman, after a flowing backs move with George Wardle making a fine break. Although Newton were still battling they were tiring and it was not long before flanker Todd Lowry ran in two tries. The rain and the wind was dying down and at last Brixham captain and scrum half Tom Akery was able to convert – both. Another try from a long mazy individual run by fly half Mac Lewis followed, and then Akery scored two tries of his own in the final five minutes which he converted.
It was not lost on the supporters how difficult the conditions became and, even more so, how well Newton had stuck to their guns and never let their heads drop. The outstanding performer this week was George Wardle followed closely by Lowry and Akery.

Regular photographer Simon Armstrong was rained off, so half of the pictures are not his!

20th February 2011 IVYBRIDGE 15 BRIXHAM 17
Brixham went to Ivybridge having never beaten them before, but never the less in confident mood after some much improved performances of late.
The opening exchanges were tense with defences on top. Brixham forwards dominated the tight but Ivybridge backs dominated the open play. However both teams defended well and there were very few try scoring opportunities. It took until the 20th minute for Brixham to get the first score on the board. A break from the 10 metre line from a maul by flanker Todd Lowry had Ivy retreating and some excellent off loading got winger Sam Hooper clear and he ran in for a great touch down. Converted by scrum half Tom Akery. Ivy replied on 27 mins with a penalty, and right on the half time whistle they scored a try wide out from a driving maul following a line out to give them the lead 8-7 at the break.
At half time Brixham knew they had to retain possession better and start running at Ivy forcing them onto the back foot. They started the second half much improved in these areas but it wasn’t until 15 minutes into the second half when Brixham scored their second try. It came from some excellent running and handling amongst the forwards. The move was finished off with a 30 yard run to the line by Lowry.
The home team now stepped up the pressure and were getting their backs moving at every opportunity – led by England final trialist Xander Connabear. However each attack was repelled with some excellent defensive work. The tackling by Joe Smith and Mike Meech stood out.
Could Brixham hold out? Continuous attacks were being stopped but in the last minute Ivy winger got over in the far corner, expertly converted, to give them a 15-12 lead. Brixham did not let their heads drop – they only had time to restart – one last chance.
From the restart Brixham won the ball back and began a forward drive winning a scrum on the Ivy 22. From the scrum No 8 Elliot Bryant (who had a superb game) charged forward, linked on the blind side with scrum half Akery before he put winger Sam Hooper over for a winning try.
Final score 15-17. A fantastic win for Brixham and full credit to all 19 in the match day squad.
Photos: Simon Armstrong

6th February 2011 BRIXHAM 67 EXETER SARACENS 0
A break from Fishermans Cup action and a friendly visit of Exeter Saracens to Astley Park.
EXeter Saracens started strongly with some determined running by their rangy forwards but Brixham negated the early threat with some determined tackling. Once Brixham began controlling the ball the balance swung in their favour and it wasn’t long before Brixham prop Joel Armitage peeled off a ruck to touch down under the posts. He repeated the move two minutes later for an almost identical try. Both tries were converted by scrum-half Tom Akery.
Brixham now started to play with real confidence and scored a further five tries in the first half through flanker Sam Unwin, Akery, flanker Matt Harvey, hooker Harry Welch and the best through centre Joe Smith following a flowing backs move involving the other centre Jordan Green and winger Zac Ardoino. Two of these tries were converted by Akery.
Half Time 43.0
Brixham rang the half time changes and Sarries came out for the second half determined to put up a better fight. It was not until 15 mins into the half that No 8 Todd Lowry got on the score sheet. There were a further 3 tries. Akery adding two to complete his hat trick and capping a fine individual display, and the last one by Armitage also completing a hat trick. Two were converted – one by Akery and the other by full back Craig Armstrong.
Pictures: Simon Armstrong

23rd January 2011 Brixham 43 Paignton 5
Brixham started brightly and were soon on top in the forward exchanges. Prop Liam Milton crashed over from close in for a converted try (Tom Akery) after only 5 minutes. Another Milton try from even closer range was unconverted to take Brix into an early 12.0 lead.
Paignton then began to get into the game and battled hard for possession - often turning over ball and forcing Brixham into errors. They kept Brixham out until the 30th minute when captain and scrum half Tom Akery made a break and scored near the posts. He converted his own try.
Right on half time Paignton were rewarded with a try of their own. An excellent individual effort from No8 Charlie Fisk was just reward for their hard work. From the restart, and in injury time, Brixham won a scrum. The backs ran a training ground move and fly half Mac Lewis went in under the posts. Converted by Akery to leave the score 26-5 at the break.
Paignton's commitment in the second half had to be applauded. They tackled everything and battled for every ball. They kept out wave on wave of Brixham attack and held out for 15 minutes before Akery went over for his second try which he also converted.
Ten minutes later came the best try of the match. Brixham flanker Todd Lowry made a break before off-loading to the backs. Quick hands along the line, including great work by winger George Wardle coming in from the blind side and executing a sublime final pass to centre Joe Smith who scored wide out.
Lowry then missed the chance to score against his old club when his strong run over the line ended with him dropping the ball.
Late on Brixham's substitute prop Joel Armitage scored with almost the last move of the match to make the final score 43.5.
Brixham have an appointment with Fishermans Cup leaders Devonport Services (away) next week, and will have fitness tests on injuries picked up by Mac Lewis, Craig Armstrong and Callum Hamill at Wednesday night training.

9th January 2011 BRIXHAM 39 PLYMSTOCK ALBION OAKS 5
After a long Christmas break Brixham were keen to start where they left off following their fine victory against Torquay last time out.
However, it was clear from the start that that was not going to be easy. Plymstock had a large set of forwards and their game plan was obvious and suited the muddy conditions. Although Brixham's scrum half Tom Akery slotted an early penalty it was Plymstock who had the territorial possession using their big forwards to their advantage. Indeed one of these forward drives led to the first try ten minutes into the game and puy Brixham behind.
Plymstock's advantage of their big forwards also proved to be a disadvantage as they over committed and gaps began to appear outside. Indeed Brixham scored two excellent tries through their backs, both scored wide out on the wing by Jack Tiltman.
Just before half time Brixham began to get on top and Akery darted in underneath the posts to score. He converted his own try to leave the halftime score 20 - 5
The second half started as the first had ended with Brixham now getting the better of the tiring Plymstock forwards. Excellent work by the Brixham back row of Sam Unwin, Todd Lowry and Matt Harvey was securing and turning over ball. The first try of the second half was scored by flanker Todd Lowry who broke through tackles to score, converted by Akery.
Brixham continued to press with another Akery individual try scored after huge pressure from the forwards and a final try right at the end again by Lowry. Both tries were converted by Akery.

Photos - Simon Armstrong

12th December 2010 BRIXHAM 27 TORQUAY 0
Having been beaten in the Devon Cup by Torquay only weeks earlier Brixham were confident of putting in a better performance - but no-one quite expected a performance like this. Tics were in fine form and sitting on top of the table (although having played more than other teams).
The first half was extremely close. Brixham had the advantage of the wind but could only manage a sole penalty from scrum half and captain Tom Akery after 15 minutes. Torquay had the better of the exchanges but their strong backs could not break down their opposite numbers who defended well making tackles and turnovers at vital times.
Half time 3.0
Torquay started the second half with the wind but it was Brixham who piled on the pressure. Brixham's forwards were getting the upper hand and were making much better use of the possession they had. Eventually the pressure told and it was flanker Todd Lowry who carried the ball, breaking a couple of tackles, before off loading to centre Joe Smith who dotted down. Converted by Akery.
It remained 10-0 for a further 15 minutes but Torquay hardly got out of their own half. Akery in the visitors' 22 broke the deadlock skipping thru two tackles to score wide out on the blind side.
Brixham forwards continued to make ground with strong runs from Todd Lowry at Blindside flanker, Joel Armitage at prop and Elliott Bryant at No8 to the forefront. All eight forwards were leading from the front in the forward exchanges denying Torquay ball for their backs. Hooker Harry Welch was his normal combatant self and second row Matt Harvey made several impressive tackles.
From a ruck on half way Brixham broke using the blindside, passed among the forwards, before Akery fed winger Sam Hooper for an exceptional touch down after running around behind the posts. Converted by Akery 22.0
Torquay began running the ball at every opportunity but the Brixham backs continued to defend well denying them any chances.
With only a few minutes to go it was Akery again who rounded off a fine individual performance with a try following another Lowry break to score and make the final score 27.0.
The performance was very good but to “nil” a very good team like Torquay was exceptional. This was down to the lads attitude on the day coupled with their team effort during the match. From 1 to 21 they were superb!

7th November 2010 BRIXHAM 69 TOTNES 0
Brixham kicked off the first half and immediately won back possession. After the ball passed through numerous hands down the blind side flanker Matt Harvey crashed over. Totnes were finding it difficult to get their hands on the ball as Brixham dominated possession and it wasn’t long before they extended their lead via a slick backs move and winger Jack Tiltman dived over wide out. Brixham continued to dominate the first half ending it with a further four tries through fly half Tom Akery, centre Craig Armstrong, No8 Todd Lewry, and full back Mac Lewis. 4 of the 6 tries were converted by Tom Akery to leave the halftime score 38-0

The second half was much of the same as Brixham made their physical advantage tell and used their strengths to great effect . A further 5 tries through Harvey, Lewry(2), Armstrong and Prop Elliott Bryant gave the Fishermen a runaway victory. However Totnes stuck to their guns and played all the way to the final whistle never letting their heads drop which was a credit to their players.
With Brixham having a full squad the changes came thick and fast throughout the match meaning everyone had plenty of game time and made for a really good all round team effort.

31st October 2010 PAIGNTON 7 BRIXHAM 24
This was a hastily arranged friendly and not a Fisherman's Cup weekend.

Half term holidays meant that Brixham took a weakened team away to Paignton, and also had their Devon representatives away with the Devon team.

After 10 minutes Paignton opened the scoring with a well worked backs move ending up with the full back sprinting around the outside of the Brixham defence to score a good try, also converted.
Paignton continued to have most of the play but slowly Brixham got a foothold in the game, going close with a couple of forward drives to the line. However Paignton held onto their lead as Brixham could not control the ball and gave away possession far too cheaply. With 10 minutes of the first half remaining a series of penalties to Brixham culminated in second row Adam Allery diving over wide out. The last move of the first half saw Paignton almost scoring in the corner but the ref deemed the ball in touch to leave the halftime score 7-5.

In the break Brixham recognised their first half errors, changed their game plan, and came out very positively. Playing now primarily among the forwards Brixham had the territorial advantage. This led to prop forward Liam Milton peeling off a driving maul and scoring in the corner for Brixham to take the lead

Although Brixham were retaining the ball far better, the home defence was holding, but it seemed only a matter of time before Brixham extended their lead. Fly half Mac Lewis made a half break, was held up, but was driven over the line for a try. Converted by Craig Armstrong.

With the last move of the match Brixham produced the best try of the game with the ball passing through several pairs of hands before Mac Lewis chipped over the top, chased his own kick, scooped it up for a great try. Again Armstrong converted.

Special mention for Adam Allery, Liam Milton, Zac Ardoino and Callum Hamill who all took their opportunity of a start well.

26th September 2010
A hastily arranged friendly with Torquay at the Rec and a brilliant game of rugby, played in a really good spirit.

Torquay had best of the opening exchanges but failed to score as Brixham defended well. Then in almost Brixham's first breakout they earned a penalty for offside at a ruck. Scrum half Tom Akery took the penalty quickly and dived over. He also converted his try. With the extra confidence Brixham began to dominate, especially the forwards, and after 25 minutes Elliot Bryant (No 8) broke from a maul to score in the corner.
Torquay replied with a try right on half time to make the half time score 7.12.

Torquay had to change the way they were playing and get the ball to their dangerous backs more which they did. Their prolific try scoring winger David ??? scoring a hat trick of tries during the second half (2 converted). However Brixham continued to nibble away with an Akery penalty and an Akery drop goal.

With time running out and Brixham down 26.18 they began playing some expansive rugby and with a great final passage of play kept the ball alive for Akery once more to finish off a lovely move under the posts, which he again converted. Akery finished with a personal haul of 20 points but the whole team deserved a great deal of praise for their never say die attitude especially as we only had bare 15 and played 20 minutes of the second half with only 14 men after an injury to full back Mac Lewis.
Final score 26-25 to Torquay, but a fantastic advert for youth rugby.

12 September 2010 BRIXHAM 5 IVYBRIDGE 19
Ivybridge are probably the strongest side in Devon in the age-group so the task facing Brixham on Sunday always promised to be hard.
From the kick-off Ivybridge dominated the game but found a Brixham defence up to the challenge. Eventually a lineout close to the Brixham line gave the visitors the platform for their forwards to drive over for the opening try. Brixham continued to defend resolutely but Ivybridge earned another close lineout and looked to repeat the end result. Brixham held the forward drive but Ivybridge recycled the ball to their backs for their centre to cross for a converted try and a 12-0 lead.
With half-time approaching Brixham mounted their first sustained attacking spell but could not open their account.
The second half opened in much the same manner as the first with Iybridge threatening to score and Brixham holding them out. Midway through the half they relieved the continuous pressure with an attacking spell of their own and were eventually rewarded when Joel Armitage went over after a 5 metre penalty. Ivybridge scored a third try to seal the game but Brixham will rarely face a tougher challenge this season.
Mac Lewis, Michael Meech and Matt Harvey all made vital defensive tackles but the whole team played their parts in the match.

Simon Armstrong < Photos > Philip Wills

5th September 2010 Newton Abbot 3 Brixham 29

Having lost a number of players over the summer break Brixham were unsure how they would perform in their first game of the season - a visit to Newton Abbot in the Fishermans Cup.
Both sides started brightly but it was Brixham who were applying more pressure. The pressure took its toll and after 10 minutes Brixham No 8 Elliott Bryant broke the defensive line to crash over wide out. This seemed to give Brixham confidence and they began putting some fantastic passages of play together only for Newton's defence to clear the danger on numerous occasions. In the best move of the match, and after several phases of play, Brixham scored their second try. Full Back Mac Lewis finishing off the move.
Newton came back showing spirit and pulled a penalty back just before half time when the Brixham centres came up too quickly in midfield. HALF TIME 3.10

Brixham started the second half brightly. The line out working particularly well with Matt Harvey ruling the skies being lifted well by his props. It was only a matter of time before Brixham scored their third try - Bryant picking up from the base of a scrum to crash over in the corner. Then the Brixham scrum put pressure on the Newton scrum, scrum half Jordan Green foiled his opposite number and the excellent Sam Unwin at openside flanker was on hand to rob the ball and touch down under the posts, converted by fly half Tom Akery. Newton Abbot never let their heads go down and fought back having a good spell and getting on top for 10 minutes, especially at scrum time. However near the end the Brixham backs got in on the act when a move was finished off by Tom Akery scoring a try on the base of the post. Injuring himself in the process the conversion was slotted by Craig Armstrong.

Everyone was really pleased by the efforts as good individual performances made for an excellent team performance on the day, and the players are now busily preparing for the visit of Ivybridge.
New players are welcome - If you would like to join please ring Adam Mudge on 07980 754731

MATCH REPORTS 2009/10 (Under 15s)

2nd May 2010 DEVON PLATE FINAL EXMOUTH 12 BRIXHAM 10
Brixham kicked off playing with the strong wind and quickly put pressure on the Exmouth forwards. However the first ten minutes was extremely close and tense affair with the majority of the game played between the two 22's. It was soon evident that Brixham had the stronger forwards but Exmouth had some very dangerous backs.
After 10 minutes Brixham one a penalty on the Exmouth 22 for an infringement at a ruck and Brixham fly half and captain Tom Akery slotted it over for a 3.0 lead.
Then there was a period of real Brixham pressure. They won another penalty and opted to run. They got over the line several times but nothing was given as the ball was either held up or knocked forward. Exmouth defended resolutely for 10 minutes and held out magnificently. Eventually they broke away with their fly half making a lovely break and the Exmouth backs ran in a cracking try from inside their own half. Missed a difficult conversion 3.5
Both sides, especially Bx, had chances in the closing stages of the first half. Brixham were not quite able to use the wind as they had hoped but much of this was down to the brilliant Exmouth defence.
Brix knew that Exmouth would use their strong kicking game and their dangerous backs in the second half and decided to nullify this by keeping the back row of Tom Mudge (blindside flanker), Sam Unwin (open side), and No8 Matt Harvey deployed in wider area's. For much of the second half this tactic worked perfectly with all 3 making good tackles and with all the other backs defending to keep Exmouth at bay.
On the half way line Brixham attacked and a loose ball was kicked through by Exmouth who managed to chase the kick and score under the posts. A cruel blow. Converted and now 3.12
Although against a strong wind the latter part of the second half saw only one team in it. Attack after attack by Brixham just always seem to come just short. The forwards hammered away at the line and the backs began to rum the ball effectively, once from deep in their own 22 - nearly ending in a try.
Exmouth continued to give penalties away and from one Brixham forwards fed the backs for winger George Wardle to come across from his opposite wing to scoot in wide out. From the touch line Tom Akery converted 10.12.
No time to restart. The ref blew time and Brixham had to settle for knowing the all gave 110% and were probably just the better side on the day.
All the players benefitted from playing at Sandy Park in what was a fantastic experience. This will only make them a better team going forward. Tom Akery collected the runners up plate and congratulated the Exmouth captain on a wonderful game of rugby.

15 Mac Lewis, 14 George Wardle, 13 Sam Hooper, 12 Ben Ringrose, 11 Craig Armstrong, 10 Tom Akery (capt), 9 Jordan Green, 1 Josh Wilson, 2 Harry Welch, 3 Elliot Bryant, 4 Joe Smith, 5 Jim Champion, 6 Tom Mudge, 7 Sam Unwin, 8 Matt Harvey
Replacements
16 Jack Tiltman (on for 11, half time), 17 Liam Milton (on for 1, 10 mins into second half - 40), 18 Adam Allery (on for 4, 10 mins into second half - 40), 19 Callum Hamill (on for 6, 50 mins), 20 Zac Ardoino (on for 12, 55 mins)

21st March 2010 BRIXHAM 6 BEAUFORT COLLEGE 12
Brixham played out a low scoring but very competitive game against Beaufort College, a touring school team from Gloucester who were having a very good season and who had already defeated TBGS. The match was even more difficult for Brixham as players were away representing their county.
The first 20 minutes were played almost exclusively in the Brixham half, but the solid Brixham defence held steady under the pressure. Indeed the defence made several vital turnovers in the Brixham 22 showing that all the recent work at training is now paying off. Brixham did claw their way back into the game playing a little more territory and were rewarded with a penalty by full back Craig Armstrong to lead 3--0. Particularly impressive in this spell was the Brixham scrum which was dominating a well drilled school outfit.
After Brixham failed to finding touch from a penalty Beaufort attacked, and with the last move of the first half scored a try wide out to go in 3--5 leaders.
Brixham started the second half with much more possession and soon worked a lovely drop goal from fly half Mac Lewis to regain the lead, 6--5. Both sides worked hard but neither side was able to dominate and gain the advantage as both defences were proving difficult to crack. But Beaufort finally worked their second try from a scrum inside the Brixham 22 as the powerful No 8 broke off and this time with an easier conversion moved the score to 6--12. Despite further intense Brixham pressure including some trademark rampaging runs from Sam Hooper (helping to earn him the man-of-the-match award from the Beaufort coach) Brixham were unable to get further points as time finally ran out.
Special praise should also go to open side Sam Unwin who linked well with the backs, scrum half Jordan Green who played especially well and wingers Joe Smith and Callum Hamill who both played really well despite being out of position.

7th March 2010 BRIXHAM 50 BIDEFORD 0 Devon Plate Q/Final
According to some supporters Bideford have not played well since the Christmas & cold weather break. It showed as Brixham scored at regular intervals through the game. There were moments when Bideford showed potential but not enough to trouble Brixham. Tries from over half the team and kicks from Tom Akery saw the Fishermen safely through. Try scorers were Tom Akery, Joel Armitage, Craig Armstrong, Matt Harvey, Sam Hooper, Mac Lewis, Harry Welch and Sam Unwin.

31st Jan 2010 BRIXHAM 14 KINGSBRIDGE 10
Both sides showed their full commitment in this match on a hard, but frost free pitch.
Kigsbridge enjoyed the early stages and their backs combined to run in two tries before Brixham got their act together. With neither try converted, the deficit was not insurmountable and Brixham began to get a foothold in the game with their forwards and backs linking up well. Before the break they combined to put winger Sam Hooper over for a try in the corner - the superb handling move saw the ball pass through all of the backs' hands. Fly half Tom Akery landed the difficult conversion to put Brixham back in contention.
In the second period the rucking of the Brixham forwards contributed greatly to the domination which Brixham achieved but solid and committed defence by Kingsbridge prevented any score until the 20th minute. Good work by No 8 Elliott Bryant and a surge by the other forwards propelled flanker Matt Harvey in under the posts. Akery added the conversion but Brixham had to work hard in the remaining time to withstand the concerted pressure and repel Kingsbridge.

31st Oct 2009 BRIXHAM 5 READING 29

25th Oct 2009 BRIXHAM 41 CREDITON 7
Brixham took to the field confident after last weeks win over Exeter Chiefs and that showed in the early play. Playing with a strong wind at their backs Brixham attacked from the kick off.
Brixham went ahead from a fine individual break from the opponents 22 by centre George Wardle who scored under the posts, converted by Tom Akery. This score was quickly followed up by the forwards when Matt Harvey touched down following a driving maul.
Brixham continued to dominate as Crediton struggled with the wind. Three more tries were scored before half time by captain and fly half Akery, wing Sam Hooper and the best from a flowing backs move by opposite wing Jack Tiltman. Two of these converted by Akery. Half Time 31.0
The half time change of ends meant Crediton now had the wind and they started the second half excellently, using their well drilled forwards to good effect. In fact Crediton dominated much of the second period and eventually scored a well worked forwards try, converted, to bring the score to 31.7.
The game became a little scrappy and the scoring dried up as both sets of forwards did battle.
The last 5 minutes saw Brixham pull clear once more. Running from their own try line Wardle made a half break, beat a couple of tackles and ran the length of the field. Another backs move from their own 22 saw Sam Hooper go over for his second try. Both these tries converted by scrum half Craig Armstrong.

18th Oct 2009 BRIXHAM 41 EXETER CHIEFS 27
The visit of a strong Exeter side was being met with a great deal of trepidation especially as Exeter were unbeaten so far this season and Brixham had 7 players unavailable with injury, leaving a bare 16. With player unavailability comes opportunity for others and that certainly proved to be the case.
An even start to the match only produced one penalty slotted over by Brixham captain Tom Akery. Then Exeter got into their stride and their fast running backs scored three unanswered tries to take a 17-3 lead. Brixham had to change the game plan and start to deny Exeter the ball through their forwards. This they did and came back into the match with tries from Elliott Bryant and Joe Smith, both converted by Akery. A great fight back meant that at half time the score stood at 17-17
Brixham continued where they left off in the second half and kept the ball much tighter with forwards Joel Armitage, Bryant and Jim Champion carrying the ball well supported by the rest of the forwards. It took a huge effort but constant forward surges and recycling of ruck ball enabled two more Brixham tries through Champion and another try from Joe Smith. Smith was one of the players asked to come in to the team and play in an unaccustomed position and he certainly was making a point to the coaches!
Exeter came back with a further try to put the match once again in the balance at 29-22 but Brixham then stretched the lead with a superb try where the forwards made progress down the pitch, the ball was passed along the line for winger Sam Hooper to finish brilliantly in the corner - 34-22. The best try of the match.
There was no time to rest as the game again see-sawed - Exeter scoring in the corner to make it 34-27 and set up a nervous last five minutes.
However most of the time was played out in the Exeter 22 and as they tried to run from their own line on "last play" Akery intercepted to score and convert his own try.
A really good advert for Youth rugby with some excellent rugby, and played in a really good spirit.
Tries J Smith (2nd Row) (2), Tom Akery (scrum half), Jim Champion (2nd Row), Elliott Bryant (no8), Sam Hooper (wing).
Cons Akery (4); Pen Akery

Thanks to Adam, here is the match report from their (Exeter's) web site - ha ha
The Chiefs Under 15's were away this weekend at Brixham. The Fishermen got off to a good start putting Chiefs under enough pressure to force a penalty. Just inside the 22, the home side opted to kick for goal and went 3 - 0 up.
Slightly rocked by the score the Chiefs bounced back. The forwards secured quick ball releasing the backs who cut through the Brixham defence to score in the corner. This was followed by another Chiefs try but by half time Brixham had fought their way back in and the score was even at 17 points a piece.
Chiefs started the second half well and again set their backs lose and got on the score sheet first but Brixham didn't lie down and kept in touch with the visitors. The home side edged in front, the margin being a single conversion, with just a couple of minutes to go. Exeter were just outside their 5 meter line and had possession but an interception from Brixham saw them extend their lead. The final score was Brixham 36, Chiefs 26. Chiefs tries came from Adam Harris (2), Jacob Jones (2) and Tom Male with one conversion from Ben Arnold.

11th Oct 2009 BRIXHAM 15 BARNSTAPLE 19

4th Oct 2009 BRIXHAM 62 PLYMOUTH ARGAUM 5

A good team performance from Brixham on Sunday saw them overwhelm Plymouth Argaum in the Devon Cup tie.
The writing was on the wall for the visitors was on the wall from the start. Three minutes into the game and Brixham had the lead after several phases of driving play by their forwards put Joel Armitage in for the opening try. Minutes later and the forwards combined again after a break by Mack Lewis and Elliot Bryant touched down.
Five further tries in the first half - all converted by Akery - saw Brixham 45-0 ahead at the break.
In the second period Brixham rang the changes with their substitutions but this did little to affect them and they continued to dominate proceedings. In attack they showed more pace and skill and in defence more commitment than their visitors. Much credit must be paid to Argaum who never gave up trying and scored a late consolation try.
Other Brixham try scorers were Jack Tiltman, Ben Ringrose, Mack Lewis and George Wardle. Lloyd Barwood slotted a second-half conversion.

27 Sept 2009 KINGSBRIDGE 29 BRIXHAM 40
As the only Brixham Youth side to play on Sunday it was incumbent on them to produce an exciting game. Thanks to Kingsbridge they did. A ding-dong battle, with play moving from end to end, in the bright September sun, was the result.
Kingsbridge took an early lead but Brixham struck back when captain and outside-half Tom Akery made a break from his own 22 to run almost the length of the pitch for the equalising try. Brixham scored two more tries to go clear but before the break Kingsbridge replied in kind and Brixham had a slim 19-17 lead when they changed ends.
In the second half the sides traded tries and Brixham led 33-29 with ten tense minutes remaining. The result could have gone either way but Brixham sealed their victory with a final converted try.
Brixham try scorers: Tom Akery, Joel Armitage, Elliot Bryant. Jim Champion, Sam Hooper and Jack Tiltman. Akery slotted 5 conversions.

MATCH REPORTS 2008/9 (Under 14s)

Wednesday 8th April 2009
BRIXHAM 5 CHESTERFIELD 17

Sunday 5th April 2009
READING 12 - BRIXHAM 10
This Sunday saw a return fixture against Brixham, who had hosted us earlier in the season when we were on Tour. They came up for a master class session at London Irish and to watch the Bristol game followed by coming to us on the Sunday morning.
When we played down there, it had been a really close game, ending with a 14 all draw, so I was expecting another close game. A combination of injuries, school trips etc meant we were down to 15 or 16 boys so we were always going to have to play really well and concentrate. They had around 20 players with them so had slightly more strength in depth. As I watched them warm up, and having tried to get our boys concentrating, I thought they might be better prepared, as they look very switched on a raring to go..
The weather was perfect, warm, no major breeze and the ground was firm to hard. It had all the makings of a fast and flowing game, with plenty of running. From my perspective in the middle of the park as ref, it certainly lived up to the expectation.
With both Sam and Craig deciding to forgo county training to play in the game, we were up to 16 boys, and when we finally came out for the start of the game, we did in fact begin to look like we were up for it.
They kicked off and the game started, at a fairly furious pace. Both teams wanted to use the width of the first team pitch, and were trying to produce good quick ball. In the first few minutes it looked as though it was going to be another very close game, with neither team really have the edge. Brixham had more of the territory (I think - its difficult to get the quality statistics they show at the internationals for our U14s games...) but our defence was really solid and we managed to keep them away from the our line.
We took a good drop goal to restart the game, but I think all our boys realised that they need to step up a little if we were going stay in the game. Our forwards were strong in defence and attack, and our backs were tackling well and looking lively when we did get the ball.
The first half ended Nil Nil, which was a result of great defence by both sides rather than lack of attacking options. As both coaching teams tried to inspire and raise their squads, I probably would have to agree with Brixham's coach who felt they just hand the upper hand. We needed a few running repairs on knee scab wounds (a result from the very hard ground under the shadow of the castle two weeks ago) and then we were ready to kick off.
We came at them very hard in the first few minutes, and slowly began to work up towards their line. Again there was some excellent play from the forwards, with Craig, Cameron and Ryan all making good ground. We then got very close to the line, when Sam pick the ball up from a ruck and drove for the line, but again great defence from Brixham held the maul up from going over. Then Tom Everett got the ball at the back of the maul and powered his way to the line, getting the ball down on the line for an excellent team (and individual) try. This is Tom's second try of the season, the last one being on tour - against Brixham! That time it was the last play of the game, and Patrick slotted the ball over for the conversion to draw the game. This time the kick was just to close too the touch line. The score was 5 nil to us.
Brixham rebounded well from the score and came back at us straight away. They moved us back towards our own twenty two before we managed to get the ball out into the backs, where Tom O'R got the ball as outside centre, and showed his true athleticness making a good 50 yards before being tackled really well. Two key things we have been trying to work on in training recently are, pass and support, combined with taking the ball at speed. There were several boys following Tom up in support, and Tom managed to flick the ball up to Sam Brown, who was going at close to full speed. The half tackle was not strong enough to slow him down, and Sam went over for a great try. With a little easier kick this time, Luke slotted the ball through the up rights and we had a 12 to nil lead.
Was this going to be our day? Were we going to run away with it? Well Brixham certainly had different ideas to us.They were very keen to get the ball back in to their backs and whether it was just their grit and determination, or the fact that Delon Armitage showed up to watch (there are family connections to the Brixham team) but they worked the ball well, getting the ball over on the club house side with 30 mtrs to go. Their fly half ran in at speed, diving for the line just as our last ditch tackle was attempted, and went over for a great score in the corner. 12 v 5 to us. A difficult kick, struck well, but slightly off target.
There were about 8 to 9 mins to go, and it was obvious that the game was not over yet. They kept the pressure on us, and we kept the defence going, until they managed to get the ball in a similar position to their first try. I think it was the same player who raced down the line, avoiding the Reading tackles to scamper over the try line, and make it towards the posts. So ironically, it was now Brixham's opportunity to kick to level the scores, however they just failed to get the ball over the cross bar.
There were about two minutes left, and the tension was very high. Both teams really wanted the victory, and it was very tightly fought. We kicked off and they managed to get the ball away and back into our half. They were making some good ground and we need to defend to our best, which we did. The ball finally went into touch from Reading, so Brixham had the throw-in for what was going to be the last play of the day. The tension was too much in the end, as unusually Brixham knocked on in the centres and the final whistle was blown.
In the end it was a really good and entertaining game of rugby, played by two teams intent on trying to run the ball. The defence from both teams was very good, as were the handling skills etc. We sneaked it in the end 12 vs 10, thanks again to our kicking boots.
All 16 of our boys played extremely well, with huge amounts of effort and commitment. A big thank you to them all. (Particularly George who walked 28 miles on the Saturday afternoon in a little over 8 hours I think). Mark had told the boys he would be awarding three awards at the end of the game, Numbty of the day, Tackler of the day and Man of the Match. Actually we didn't award the first, as there was no one who deserved it (for once!). Tackler of the day went to Luke, who like all the backs came up fast and tackled strongly, taking down many boys larger than himself. Man of the Match could have gone to any of the boys today, but in the final analysis it was given to Sam Brown, and well deserved too.
We hosted Brixham after the game, and I think everyone enjoyed themselves. (We also won the mini boat race, not that anyone was counting). Hopefully the Brixham lads were quiet and sleepy on their journey home, although I some what doubt it.
Thanks to all my lot, you played very wel;
Robert

Match report from Reading RFC website

Congratulations to Sam Unwin, Sam Hooper, Tom Akery, Joel Armitage and Matt Harvey; all selected to play for South Devon on April 8th.

Sunday 29th March 2009 BRIXHAM 36 TOTNES 20
Sam Hooper celebrated his selection (and that of four team-mates) for the South Devon side by running in four tries against Totnes on Sunday.
Brixham opened strongly but five minutes of pressure was undone when Totnes secured the ball in their own half and ran through for a try. Undaunted, Brixham went back on the offensive and were back on level terms when Tom Akery touched down. His conversion kick was unsuccessful but two more attempts before half-time secured the extras for tries scored by Sam Hooper and Joel Armitage. Brixham had a 19-5 interval lead but the wind and the slope were now in Totnes' favour.
Totnes generally had the edge in the second period and closed the arrears with a try after five minutes. Any hopes they had of beating the Fishermen were dashed in the middle of the half. In the space of ten minutes Hooper ran in three tries, one converted by Akery, and Brixham were clear. Totnes made the scoreboard more respectable with two well-deserved tries in the closing minutes.

Sunday 22nd February 2009 BRIXHAM 7 SIDMOUTH 10

Sunday 25th January 2009 BRIXHAM 10 TORQUAY 46

Sunday 9th November 2008 BARNSTAPLE 10 BRIXHAM 7 - Devon Cup 1st Round

JOEL INSPIRED BY BROTHER DELON AND ENGLAND

Just before kick off the heavens opened and conditions for the match were cold, wet and very windy.
Barnstaple played with the wind in the first half and used their big backs line to kick down into the Brixham half on every occasion. The opening exchanges were pretty equal but the conditions meant that Brix were soaking up pressure and finding it difficult to get out of their own half. Sam Hooper made a fine defensive tackle bundling his opposite centre into touch just as he was about to touch down and again Brix cleared their lines.
Barnstaple pressure eventually lead to a close in try with their forwards driving over. Brixham then lost hooker Callum Hamill to a wrist injury, so prop Sam Unwin moved over to hook. All the time Barnstaple continued to use huge kicks to gain territory and Brixham full back Mac Lewis dealt with each and every one, sometimes launching counter attacks to good effect. Just before half time Barnstaple scored another close in try to lead 10-0 at the break.
Brixham knew they were in with a chance. Soon into the second half they lost Sam Unwin to concussion and Jack Tiltman to a leg injury. Unwin's injury meaning a further reorganisation to the front row. It was testament to all the guys playing in the front row that the scrum still stood firm. Brixham had much more possession and this began to tell. However the weather deteriorated and did not help. Following numerous concerted efforts to cross the line eventually a Brixham forward broke free to crash over - it was Joel Armitage fresh from Twickenham watching his brother Delon earn his first England cap!. Try converted by scrum half Tom Akery.
Now it was game on - but the rain only got worse. For all Bx efforts and some strong penalty claims it was not to be.
The lads effort was fantastic and an extremely tough game was played in really good spirit. Brixham Man of the Match was Mac Lewis who gave a faultless display at full back in awful conditions.
Although Bx were deflated, gutted and exhausted in the changing room their spirits were lifted when John Armitage brought in Delon's first England cap to show everyone.
Now they all know what they have to aspire to!!

Sunday 2nd November 2008 BRIXHAM 18 PLYMSTOCK ALBION OAKS 5
Cold, wet and windy! It wasn't the best conditions to play and for the first 15 minutes defences dominated. Also it was a much improved Plymstock team from that which Brixham defeated in the Cup and they had certainly recruited some good players. The first score came when Brixham pressure saw Plymstock give away a penalty under the points which Tom Akery converted. That gave Brixham a little more confidence and 5 mins later a forward drive resulted in a pile up over the Plymstock try line where second row Adam Allery emerged with the ball to claim the try. With the last move of the first half Plymstock hacked through in mid field and their centre won the chase to touch down. Half time 8.5
Brixham certainly started the second half brighter and the ball retention improved meaning both backs and forwards could play more open rugby. Although they had numerous scoring chances Plymstock defended excellently clearing their lines under pressure. When Scrum half Akery put in a high attacking kick the ball was gathered by Centre Sam Hooper who brushed aside several tacklers on a storming run to the corner flag. He still had plenty of support available if he needed which was testimony to the way Brixham were playing backing up at all times. In the dying minutes Brixham won a scrum near the Plym line for Elliott Bryant to crash over from No8 - and that’s the way it finished 18.5.
Special mention for outstanding performance went to Jim Champion in the second row and centre Sam Hooper.

Saturday 25th October 2008 BRIXHAM 14 READING 14
In very blustery conditions this was an extremely hard fought encounter. The conditions meant that a very tight opening period was interrupted by handling errors. Defences were on top for most of the first half. However with most of the half played Brix managed to string a good backs move together to send winger Craig Armstrong over. A difficult conversion was nailed by scrum half Tom Akery. Brixham led 7-0 at the break.
It became evident early on in the second half that Reading strengthened using many of their subs, especially in the forwards. However Bx mopped up the pressure and defended well. When Bx did have opportunities they were wasted by some bad options being taken. Reading scored the equalising try under the posts following a concerted forward drive.
Brix replied almost straight away. Following a breakdown on half way centre Sam Hooper picked up a loose ball, broke a couple of tackles and sprinted to score. Again Akery made a difficult conversion scraping the ball over in the angle between post and bar.
That is how it stayed despite constant Reading pressure, until the last move of the game. Reading kicked a penalty for a line out well inside the Bx 22. They caught and drove until a forward broke out. Despite being tackled short of the line he wriggled over and referee Len Harvey gave the score. Despite it being controversial there were no complaints from Bx. The kicker still had to hold his nerve to convert a kick which was by no means easy …. But did…and ended 14.14. A fair result.
Reading enjoyed their day and the two sets of players mixed really well in the club house following the match with both sides making presentations.

Sunday 5th October PLYMSTOCK 0 BRIXHAM 41 Preliminary round Devon Cup
Heavy overnight rain made it difficult conditions at a wet and windy Plymstock. Plymstock's big heavy pack also started well out scrummaging Brixham at the first scrum. Slowly Brixham got on top especially in the loose and pressure began to mount on Plym. A strong run by left wing Craig Armstrong led to a ruck where the ball was recycled quickly, taken on by Joel Armitage who timed his pass perfectly to put Liam Turvey over in the corner. It was the open side flankers first Brixham try and didn't he celebrate it! That try was unconverted.
Brixham had a lot of pressure, including a disallowed Ben Ringrose try, but Plymstock defended well. Soon after the Brixham backs spun it wide, right winger Ringrose off loaded to a looping centre Jack Tiltman who went over in the corner. Unconverted.
Third try - again it was forward pressure which allowed skipper Mat Harvey to crash over from close in for Tom Akery to convert, and there was still time to add a fourth first half try when prop Joel Armitage stormed over from 5 yards to give the Fishermen a half time lead of 22-0
Plymstock started the second half brightly as Brixham rang the changes and it took ten minutes for Brixham to score. Brixham had a mountain of pressure but amazingly Plymstock held out defending excellently and continually thwarting Brixhams passing moves. However the Brixham scrum half got on the end of a move and out sprinted the defence for a try which he converted.
As the Brixham forwards tired it was time for the backs to start playing and handling was now good despite the greasy ball. Another move resulted in fly half Mac Lewis going over for his first ever Brixham try; converted by Ben Luck. As time was running out there was still time for Armitage to sneak round the blind side for his second try.

Sunday 28th September 2008 BRIXHAM 24 KINGSBRIDGE 14
Brixham were nearly back to full strength but were still without Sam Unwin (thumb) and Harry Welch (broken arm) from the front row.
The game remained deadlocked in the first quarter with defences well on top. As both teams tried hard to break down the other the game became a little scrappy with some handling errors at crucial times. However Brixham continued to press and some good runs were made by winger Ben Ringrose whose handling stood out from all others. With ten minutes of the first half to go Sam Hooper broke the Kingsbridge line to score wide out. The conversion was missed by new kicker Ben Luck making his first full start for Brixham.
Kingsbridge started the second half very strongly and took the lead with a converted try from their hard running centre. However Brixhams change of tactics was paying dividends and their play for position, hard rucking and direct running meant fewer errors. Sam Hooper scored a try, this time converted by Ben Luck, and soon scored another - the best of the game. A flowing backs move ended in a solo run to the line by Jack Tiltman evading three defenders before he coolly off loaded to Sam Hooper for his hat trick. Again Luck converted.
As the game moved into its final stages Kingsbridge found their second wind and scored an excellent try under the posts by their winger who started a mazy run from the 22 wide out cutting inside several defenders. This was also converted.
However Brixham had the final word when a hack out of defence by scrum half Tom Akery lead to a defensive error by Kingsbridge and following the ensuing ruck - and a few passes out wide - Sam Hooper went over for his 4th try. Unconverted.
Man of the match had to go to Sam Hooper for his 4 tries but even he acknowledged that his tries needed the assistance of his team mates. Also getting high praise were second rowers Jim Champion and Adam Allery for their continued improvement and skipper Matt Harvey who lead the team very well. Congratulations also to Dan Alford who made his B debut.

Sunday 14th September 2008 Brixham 15 Ivybridge 17
Although Ivy are one of the better sides at our level Bx were confident of putting up a good show following the improvements made over the pre-season.
The match started with both sides showing huge commitment and scores remained locked for some time with defences on top. Although Ivy bigger all round physical presence meant they had a lot of the play they were kept being put on back foot by Bx tackling and commitment at the ruck.
Eventually Ivy infringed at a ruck at Tom Akery slotted a penalty 3.0
Then on stroke of half time and after a string of excellent running from the backs Sam Hooper burst thru to score.8.0 - Half time
Most of the crowd, inc Ivy, could not believe the score and the standard of play by both teams up to the break.
Ivy came out of the blocks at half time and quickly scored a try to make it 8.5. Bx then dug even deeper to hold out Ivy for 10 minutes before Bx scored again. Hooker Sam Unwin burst thru from the 22 , breaking tackles and went in under the posts for Akery to convert. 15.5
Ivy quickly reduced the deficit to 15.10 and the game entered the last 10 minutes. Injuries began to take their toll on the highly committed Bx team and their changes in personal with Elliott Bryant, Callum Hamill, Sam Unwin, Jordan Green, Liam Turvey all receiving knocks.
All supporters were gutted when Ivy scored a last minute try which still needed converting - which they did 15.17.
Brixham scrummaged magnificently all game winning balls against the head and pushing them off the ball on several occasions - something that does not often happen to Ivy!. The basis for this came from a brilliant effort from the front five Joel Armitage, Sam Unwin, Tom Mudge, Jim Champion and Adam Allery.
Coach Adam Mudge said" The boys all put in some much effort and commitment they should not be too disappointed. They have improved by working really hard and if they continue to play like this there is no doubt we will have a successful season."

Saturday 7th September 2008 Brixham 38 Barnstaple 5
Special match to play before 1st team v Devon Presidents and to open the new extension to Cluhouse.
It was a great honour to be asked by the Senior Committee to do this is the team did not disappoint. They played fantastically and all looked the part dressed in No 1's after the match.
It was the first time the two teams had met at this level and the first exchanges were hotly contested. Bx got slowly on top and the breakthrough was made by centre Sam Hooper after a strong individual run.
Once confidence was up and the forwards were providing good possession for the backs, gaps began to open up and Bx ran out 38.5 winners. Tries were all scored by the backs showing Bx's intentions for their style of rugby for the coming season. Sam Hooper 4 tries, centre Jack Tiltman and scrum half Tom Akery. Akery also slotted 4 conversions.