The annual Ben TC Memorial game took place at Raleigh Park this Saturday, featuring a thrilling match between the Withycombe Invitational side and the Local Legends, honouring the memory of Ben Croskerry.
With two teams well-stocked with talent, experience, speed and some club legends on both sides – the large crowds had an enthralling match ahead of them to enjoy.

Withy started the game strongly, getting off on the front foot with an early penalty to take the ball deep into the Legends’ half. The initial attacking threat was extinguished when their lineout was stolen, but they continued to work well, eventually releasing Lewis Tose through the middle to score under the posts for an early 7-0 lead.
The Legends responded well, with some good play of their own. Persistent pressure inside the Withycombe 22’ meant they eventually found a gap under the posts to score. With the conversion attempt going a little awry, the score sat at 7-5.
A large period of mixed possession in the middle third kept the fans entertained. With the half now drawing to a close, the visitors took the lead with a converted score from a great run from halfway. The half time score, 07-12.

With the second half now underway, Withy had the slope in their favour and a secret weapon by the name of Tony Hafner… The kick off was received by Withycombe and shipped out to the wing where Tony took the ball, jinking through the defenders to run under the posts and score. To top it off, he kicked the conversion. A huge shift from the guest player who took his leave from the field after the score, exiting at the pinnacle of his matchday performance!
Once again, the Legends struck back a little over five minutes later with their third try of the match to regain the lead.
In what proved to be an effective bench, the refreshed Legends side gained the upper hand and scored three further tries in just over 15 minutes.

Despite the gap in the scoreline, the levels of energy and enjoyment in the game remained high and there was still time for one more try. With one minute remaining, Lewis Tose got himself back onto the score board with another well-timed break.

The final score, Withycombe Invitational 21, Local Legends 36.

A wonderful day with some great rugby on show and a real example of how the rugby family can get together for a brilliant cause, no matter what team you may support or play for.
We’re looking forward to the next meeting again already!

A huge thank you to everyone that came along to make it the afternoon it was to remember Ben and also raise funds for the Devon Air Ambulance.