Rugby rollercoaster for Brixham brings top of the table triumph

Brixham RFC have developed into the most unpredictable team imaginable over the opening weeks of a chaotic campaign in the Regional 1 SW Division.

After the disappointment of a heavy defeat at Exmouth the previous week, Brixham welcomed unbeaten league leaders Topsham to Astley Park, and promptly dished out a superb performance to win 46-35.

The Fishermen edged in front with an early penalty but then fell behind to a converted try. Kai Kidd got Brixham back on a roll, dotting down in the corner after a long string of attacking phases for the home side.

Will Peakman bundled his way over from close range for the second score and Brixham stretched their lead to 22-10 when Jordan Green found space in the corner to dive over the line.

Topsham reduced the arrears to just two points with a strong start to the second period but Jamie Hext restored Brixham superiority when he spotted a gap in the Topsham defence to score under the posts.

Back came Topsham, 29-25, and back came Brixham, Jack Stead dancing through the visitors for a beautiful finish. The score clicked over to 36-30 before Timmy Viridu darted through a tiring backline to notch the winning try.

The Fishermen travel to Launceston on Saturday and just need to find some consistency to again make a proper push for the title. Elsewhere, Brixham Crusaders overpowered Torquay 2nds 91-0.

There was better news for the Torquay Athletic first XV, as they turned on the style in a 55-24 win over Truro. Tommy Aldous bagged debut a hat-trick for the Tics, there was a double from Callum Crocker and further scores by Jonny Brown, Morgan Alcock and Jack Akery.

Brad McKee celebrated a half-century of appearances for Paignton Rugby Club by slotting the crucial kicks in an entertaining 36-33 success. The Cherries had to battle back from a first-half deficit and got the win with scores from Josh Gillard (2), Tom Osborn (2) and Jack Linley-Shaw.