Bideford Chiefs triumphant in brutal conditions on Presidents’ Day

The celebrations for Presidents’ Day at Bideford Rugby Club came through rotten weather to enjoy an impressive 31-7 victory for the Chiefs over Crediton.

Played in awful conditions, the Chiefs surged into the lead with a try from Mitch Harris midway through the first half and added another within two minutes, Jacob Nash dotting down and Fred Fishleigh adding the extras.

Harris notched his second score of the day to give Bideford a 17-0 lead at the break but Crediton rallied to grab a converted try from a driving maul, but that was as good as it got for the visitors.

After more battling through the mud, Charlie Stevenson and Fishleigh scored two late tries for the hosts to win the game comfortably.

“It was a tough game, Crediton made it hard for us but we are delighted with the win,” said Bideford boss Bradley Goaman. “Scrum half Jacob Nash had a great game and was named man of the match.”

The Chiefs currently sit third in the table and just seven points behind leaders Devonport Services 2nds. Bideford are at home to Withycombe this weekend.

Barnstaple have dropped to fifth in the National League 2 West Division following a 27-19 defeat at Chester.

Barum fell behind to a home try on 13 minutes but found parity when Bertie Stretch crossed the whitewash, Henry Sellick adding the extras.

Chester went ahead again with another score from their lively winger but Barnstaple once responded, Stretch grabbing his second of the day and Barum held a 12-10 lead at the interval.

Unfortunately, the second period was marred by two yellow cards for the Chiefs and Chester took full advantage, as their winger completed his hat-trick and a penalty try effectively put Barum out of reach.

Replacement Sam Vickery did add a consolation try in the final minute but there was no way back from the long trip north. 

The Chiefs return to Pottington Road for the visit of Redruth this weekend, while Barnstaple Athletic enjoyed an impressive 50-12 triumph over St Ives in tricky conditions.