Tiverton 16 Paignton 15
Tiverton bounce back with narrow victory against Paignton
Reflecting on the game, Tiverton director of rugby,Jon Hill says: “In a game that went down to the wire, it was great to see us graft out a win, and come from behind, in a game that I felt we could have had control of much earlier.
“We were very dominant in the first half but failed to convert pressure into points, making a wide range of errors. We certainly dominated field position , and possession and spent long periods in their 22 with limited reward.
“Adam Willows played very well at nine to control the game, and Dino Bozic kicked four out of five in horrendous conditions , with an 11 point return. A very good contribution from a guy who stepped into start at ten following the late withdrawal of Matty Down through injury.
“That said, this was a game won up front, and the forwards provided an excellent foundation from scrum, line out and maul. Elliott Howells showing superb composure in the conditions, to ensure we had a very good line out return. Roger Simmons and Matt Reed were a dominant force at the scrum, and Tom Skelding was once again a match winner for us with some innovative thought for the winning score.
“Our target now must be to reflect and improve as a side. Should we have converted more of our try scoring opportunities the game would have been won earlier. Paignton offered threats and took their opportunities. We gifted them momentum during the 50-70 minute period and put ourselves under pressure as a result. Whilst pleasing to see our reaction, we must look at ways of re-setting mentally following a momentum shift.
“Paignton, like Bideford are a good side and nothing should be read into league position in what is proving a very competitive league. We have done well in the league to date , but have to continue to improve and certainly be more consistent away from home. There will be some good challenges for us after Christmas and we have to look to kick on and cement our place in the top five.
Man of the Match against Paignton went to Tom Skelding, who continues to defy the affects of age , and play with the energy and enthusiasm of a teenager.”
