Teams 
Trys: Harry Parker (4), Adam Norman, George Morris
Conversions: Finn Booth (5)
Penalties: Finn Booth
Bideford U16s battled their way into the Shield Final with a hard-fought 43–38 win in a thrilling contest that had everything.
With an early 11am kick-off following a long journey, the squad initially showed signs of nerves in the changing room. However, a full and focused warm-up helped settle the group. Honest words from the coaches before kick-off reminded the players to enjoy the occasion and play the rugby they know they are capable of, whatever the outcome. That message clearly struck a chord.
Facing a physically strong Ivybridge side, who matched Bideford in size, the difference came through Biddy’s work rate and technical execution across the pitch.
Bideford struck first, making the most of penalties close to the line, with Harry Parker crossing for the first of his four tries. His ability to capitalise from close range proved crucial throughout the match.
The game presented its challenges, most notably when scrum-half Oli Cornish—who had been outstanding, was forced off with an ankle injury. The reshuffle saw Finn Booth move to scrum-half, Alfie Richards step into fly-half, and Jake Maund shift to fullback. Despite the disruption, Bideford adapted well and continued to compete strongly against a well-drilled Ivybridge side.
Further tries from Adam Norman and George Morris kept the scoreboard ticking over, ensuring Bideford maintained pressure throughout.
From the tee, Finn Booth was in excellent form, slotting five conversions ( some tricky angles) and a penalty to keep daylight between the sides and force Ivybridge to chase the game.
In open play, Seb Cackett caused constant problems for the Ivybridge defence with his attacking threat, while Thomas Reed produced one of the standout performances of the day. Defending on the wing, he repeatedly brought down Ivybridge’s powerful skipper with fearless and effective tackling, despite the size difference.
With so many injuries there was a lot of pressure on the Biddy back line. But composure and maturity kicked in and they tactically were the better team. Some good kicking into space at the right times gave Biddy the forward foot and some resilient defence on their line frustrated the Ivy players. George Morris was a real thorn in the side of the Ivy pack constantly getting hands on the ball and slowing up their backs.
The match was not without its setbacks, as Alexander Todd suffered what appeared to be a dislocated elbow. Everyone at the club sends their best wishes for a speedy recovery. Something that shows the character of these lads as a team was when they all had their photo on the ivy pitch but were insistent that they had another with their team mate Alexander who was waiting for the ambulance and was a real trooper as the pain levels were incredible.
Incredibly difficult to pick out a Man of the Match – Harry for his 4 trys, Thomas for his sterling defence, Ed for some big runs, Finn for his 5 cons and pen.
Harry and Thomas took the players votes-well done lads!
Attention now turns to the Shield Final, which will take place at Brixham on April 19th against Devonport Services, another tough challenge against largely unknown opposition.
