Fab finales in local rugby

On a weekend of tight finishes in Devon rugby, Paignton arguably took the top prize with a thrilling 22-17 victory at Bideford, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat right at the death.

The two sides were locked at 17-17 at the break, with the Paignton tries coming from Jack Carlisle and Dewald Stoop, Brad McKee added the extras. Bideford thought they had the game won when they crossed the line to lead 22-17 but there was a final twist.

Carlisle broke through the home defence one last time and when McKee slotted the conversion, Paignton had the win. Paignton 2nds also won, beating Salcombe 18-13, but the Colts went down 5-22 to Exmouth and the Ladies lost a thriller at Cullompton 45-42.

Torquay extended their unbeaten home record with a brutal 99-0 defeat of OPM at the Rec, a result that keeps the Tics just two points behind the leader Barnstaple 2nds.

Astley Park was also treated to a cracker, as Brixham defeated Devonport Services 28-24 in a brilliant game of rugby. Taking on the league leaders, Brixham showcased all that is special about local rugby, and cheered on by a passionate crowd, the Fisherman bagged their catch.