Today sees our penultimate match in the Counties 2 Tribute Ale Devon League with next week’s rescheduled game at home to Exeter Saracens providing the climax to an eventful season. Today’s opposition is provided by Dartmouth and we welcome their players, committee and supporters to Raleigh Park for what is hoped will be an good afternoon’s rugby. We are in 7th place and look destined to finish there which will be a reasonable season although with several close losses we missed points on occasions. We were good at picking up bonus points regularly but could have done with a few more wins. Dartmouth are in 12th place with -9 points, having had a very difficult season with selection problems. We have been there and if players are not available there is nothing to be done about it. They will return to Counties 3 for next season but I am sure that they will regroup and bounce back very soon. I hope that they can have an enjoyable game today. We wish them all the best for next season.

The ladies have had a terrific season; they are in 2nd place in the league with one game to play so congratulations to them and our thanks for the support they give the club, not just on the pitch but socially; they certainly increase the bar take! I know that they are not going to rest on their laurels and are working hard to recruit more players to strengthen the squad as they look forward to next season.

The juniors have also had a great season with some excellent results but more importantly enjoying their rugby at all age groups. The Under 14s lost 24-21 in the Plate final played at Exeter Athletic’s Oil Mill Lane pitch last Sunday, so well done t them. Our thanks go to all of the dedicated coaches who have encouraged and supported the players throughout the season. I think that there are some changes to the coaching structure, inevitable as players move up in age grade. Our Under 16s have built a tremendous team spirit and next season become first year colts which means that they will come up against some older and more experienced teams but I am sure that t hey will give a good account of themselves and I wish them luck as they venture into unknown territory.

Back to today’s game where you can all play your part by supporting the boys in your usual vocal manner. Make yourselves heard, always remembering to keep your comments within bonds. Show respect for our opposition and the referee but most of all…………………

ENJOY YOUR RUGBY!

Dave Josey