Torquay Athletic back on top after thumping victory

TORQUAY Athletic are back on top of the Tribute South West Devon Division after a convincing 46- 14 win over Devonport Services 2nd XV at the Recreation Ground.
The Tics went into the key game two points behind Services after a couple of recent defeats, but they put a marker down in a powerful first half which established a 36-7 lead. They eventually ran out bonus-point winners with tries from Ryan Hannauer (2), Carl Turner (2), Matt Allanson, Craig Withers and Tom Drake.
They were also awarded a penalty try, with Lewis Crocker kicking the ‘extras’. It sends Dan Williams’ side into this weekend’s seasonal ‘break’ three points clear of Services and eight in front of Barnstaple 2nds, who could close the gap when they play their game in hand at Exeter Saracens on Saturday.
In Regional One, Brixham routed a struggling Matson side 77-7 in a ten-try romp at Astley Park.
The Fishermen were 45-0 up at half-time, but won’t be reading too much into a victory that included five tries for Matt Crosscombe and two for Andre Simonetti.
They know they’ll have to be on top form when promotion chasing Launceston come to town for a rearranged game this Saturday.
Brixham and Launceston are the only two sides who have beaten leaders Chew Valley so far. Chew currently have 42pts, from Barnstaple 40, Devonport Services 40 and Launceston 33, with Brixham in mid-table.
Paignton will try to continue their good recent form in Counties One Western West when they entertain St Ives this Saturday.
It’s a quick rearrangement after last weekend’s scheduled fixture fell victim to the wet weather.
A win for the Cherries at Queen’s Park could lift them up to third place, behind leaders Plymstock Albion Oaks and Kingsbridge.
There were defeats for Newton Abbot and Teignmouth in Regional Two. Newton lost 27-33 to North Petherton at Rackerhayes and Teignmouth found Crediton too strong away – the new leaders won 49-20 at Blagdon. In a very tight promotion race, Sidmouth could go top for the first time this season if they win their game in hand at lowly Chard this weekend.