Saints travelled to Devon having lost to league leaders Bideford last time out and a side featuring 6 changes from the previous Saturday. With the entire front row and first choice fly-half Andy Ashwin unavailable it was always going to be a big ask at aground where Saints do not have fond memories

Sure enough after 5 minutes the Crediton skipper caught and drove from a line out to score. The try was converted by Rob Milton. Saints replied with a penalty for not releasing scored by their outstanding scrum half Matt Shepherd and then Earp put centre Sam Rhodes away from his own 22 for the first of his hat-trick.

It was a feat matched by Creditons speedy winger Chris Shaplin who poached two in the first half and a screamer from 70metres in the second. The lead changed hands no less than 5 times but ultimately Matt Shepherd's boot was the difference between the two sides with two late penalties for not releasing in the tackle.

Saints have now won three on the road and on this form will be many peoples favourite for a top 3 finish

Report by Arthur Guiness