Brixham break 50 points again to become highest scorers in the league

Sitting third in the Regional 1 SW table, Brixham are probably not going to catch leaders Devonport Services at the top but the Fishermen can boast the highest points tally in the league.

A 55-31 defeat of Sidmouth at Astley Park once again showcased their incredible attacking prowess, but also the defensive frailties that have cost them a few too many losses to topple the leaders.

The first half against Sidmouth was a surprisingly ragged affair for Brixham. The visitors scored first but Mat Crosscombe got the home side going with a try in the corner, only for Sidmouth to swiftly stretch their lead to 14-5.

Strength and determination from Jordan Watson got the Fishermen back to within two points before a clever dummy from Jimmy Vidiri gave Brixham the lead for the first time, but Sidmouth again responded to edge the first period 19-17.

After the break, however, Brixham emerged from the foggy conditions to steamroller their opponents. A rampaging run from Crosscombe created space for Connor Doneathy to dot down and Watson then notched his brace to provide some breathing space.

A yellow card for Sidmouth, a couple of Brixham penalties and a Kai Kidd try put the hosts into a position of comfort at 41-19. Jack Stead was next to cross the whitewash and Doneathy completed a powerful win, despite a couple of late Sidmouth scores.

Next up for Brixham is a small matter of the Devon Cup Final against Exmouth at Astley Park on Saturday, kick-off 2.30pm.

Brixham Sirens celebrated International Women’s Day with an outstanding 34-10 victory at Wellington. Lois Burry and Brandie Squires both scored twice and there were further tries from Zee Vallis and Sophie Burnell.

A powerful first-half display proved enough for Torquay Athletic to secure a thrilling 29-28 win at Saltash, tries coming from Ryan Hanauer, Mawgan Penrice, Callum Crocker and man of the match Lloyd Penhalagan. Lewis Crocker kicked the extras.

Paignton Ladies held on for a tense 24-23 victory over Truro in a cracking game of rugby that saw tries from Gracie Seldon, Alisha Hackman, Charlotte Massey and Lu Lu Sinar, while Paignton Men dominated Kingsbridge with 42-12 win on the road.

Head Coach Martin Worthington said: “Both teams were in form and ready for what was a bit of a derby game. The first 20–30 minutes were very tight, with solid defence and good patience when we had the ball.

“Scoring just before half-time gave us a big lift in confidence. In the second half, we saw some great individual performances—standout players really lifted the team. Alongside that, we scored some fantastic tries, and our strong defence and game management won us the game in the end.

“Full credit to Kingsbridge—they are a very strong side and in good form—but we were just on form on the day.

“It’s nice to be chasing the top of the league rather than being chased. The boys feel more comfortable that way. A solid five points—onwards to next week and the business end of the season!”