Brixham edged out in epic title race

After nine months of gruelling effort, incredible drama and scintillating rugby, Brixham RFC fell just two points short of winning the Regional 1 Tribute SW Division and promotion to the National League.

Heading into the final day, the Fishermen needed a favour from St Austell, who travelled to leaders Barnstaple, where any sort of victory for the hosts would seal the crown for the North Devon club.

Brixham, meanwhile, had to do their job at home to Launceston, and they did it in spectacular fashion, running out dominant 87-14 victors against a team placed fifth in the table, so absolutely no pushovers.

A cracking atmosphere at Astley Park soaked up a try-fest, with the Brixham scores coming from Koree Britton, Matt Crosscombe (2), Tommie Drennan (3), Joel Ashworth, Andre Simonetti, Louie Drennan, Kai Alton and Kai Kidd (2).

The Fishermen had kept up their side of the bargain, over to St Austell, who fought back bravely from a poor start at Barnstaple, but the home side held their nerve to claim the top prize with a 36-26 victory.

Ultimately, it was a surprise loss to Sidmouth a few weeks ago that cost Brixham the title but, despite the final day disappointment, everyone at Astley Park can be extremely proud of an outstanding league campaign.

The season is not done, however, with attention turning to the Papa Johns Cup and a home tie with Camberley from Surrey this weekend. Brixham Crusaders ended their league season with an 81-10 trouncing of local rivals Paignton 2nds to confirm a runners-up finish in the Counties 3 Devon South & West Division.

Paignton also ended their season with a second-place finish in the Counties 1 Western West Division. The Cherries battered bottom club Bideford 66-27. Tries came from Dewald Stoop (3), Henry Hoare (3), Harry Ward, Jordan Hodge, Ethan Ward and Jack Carlisle. Extras from Brad McKee. Paignton Ladies beat Camborne 35-3 and the Colts defeated Exmouth 27-15.

Unfortunately, Exmouth 2nds forfeited their trip to Torquay Athletic but the Tics still enjoyed a day of celebration at the club after a superb unbeaten league campaign.