Wins for Ladies and U15s, Colts narrowly beaten at Bude

Chiefs

Bideford lacklustre as Chiefs are beaten before half-time

Bideford Chiefs 12–34 OPMs

Bideford Chiefs produced a below-par performance in front of their home supporters, and quite frankly, it was a display we can only apologise for.

A combination of injuries, player unavailability and commitments with Devon trials meant Bideford were forced into making significant changes to the squad. It was far from an ideal situation, but the expectation was still that this would be a much closer contest.

The coaching team had worked incredibly hard throughout the week to get the fixture on. With player numbers stretched, the decision was also made to cancel the Quins fixture, allowing the club to put out a Select First XV.

Unfortunately, the performance on the day fell well short of what was expected. For large periods, Bideford struggled to find any real rhythm or intensity, and there was very little for the home crowd to get excited about.

Two players who deserve particular credit were Sam Picillo and Ned Pettifer, both of whom consistently looked to play on the front foot and showed the attitude and intent that the rest of the team needed to match.

The front three also deserve huge recognition. Rich Weston, Harvey Beal and Paul Short all battled through injuries to get the game completed, putting in an enormous shift for the team.

However, the biggest disappointment was the apparent acceptance of defeat. By half-time, the Biddy lads looked beaten, and whatever was said in the changing room failed to spark the response needed. The second half offered little improvement, leaving the coaching team with plenty to reflect on.

There is no hiding from the fact that this was a poor performance, and the players will know that much more is expected of them. The coaches will be putting the squad through a tough session this week as preparations begin for another long journey, this time to Brixham.

It certainly won’t get any easier, with Brixham expected to bring a big, physical and powerful challenge. Bideford will need to show considerably more character, commitment and determination if they are to get the result they want this weekend.

Ladies

Bideford Ladies 27–12 Bude

Bideford Ladies with their second match of the season, welcome Bude to King George Field! With both local rivals expecting a close game!

Bideford started the game on the front foot camped in the Bude half for the opening minutes but Bude held up until Zara Lock went over for the first try of the game! Soon after Lily Richter made a great run up the channel weaving through defenders scoring under the posts.

Bude then came back and picked some gaps in the middle of Bideford defence and going over for a converted try at the other end. Making it Bideford 10–7 at half time!

After half time Bideford came out with more intensity camping in Bude’s half after a tactical switch Zara Lock blitzed through the middle of Bude’s defence scoring under the posts with Lily Richter converting.

Straight after a run down the far side of the pitch saw the ball full to Mollie Osment who scored from a couple metres out! 22–7.

Finally Hannah Daniels went over from close range after some strong work from Bideford’s pack. With Bude scoring a consolation try at the end of the game making it Bideford 27–12 Bude.

Honourable mention for today’s game with strong carries from Buddha (Cheryl Patterson) Zara Lock and Blue (Catherine Bradborn) While Sarah Taylor Salkeld and Scarlett Davies put in some good runs and tackles.

Bideford’s player of the game went to Hannah Daniels for her constant threat and many turnovers on Bude’s ruck.

Bideford also had Beyan Joshy debut on the wing for them putting in a strong first performance!

We travel to Devonport Services on Sunday 22nd November!

Colts

Match report Bude v Colts

Bude 33–28 Bideford Colts

The Colts made the short journey to our nearest Cornish neighbours and faced a determined and well drilled Bude side.

First half tries from Oli Cornish (9), Finn Booth (10), pen try awarded and two conversions by Booth, gave Bideford a half time lead of 21–14 with Bude clawing their way back into the game with two tries. The first half ebbed and flowed with Bude raising their game and taking advantage of penalties awarded against Bideford and some poor field decisions in key areas.

The second half Bideford didn’t fully capitalise on their narrow lead and failed to execute in key areas with Bude narrowing the gap and edging ahead. With minutes to go Bideford hoped the match was out of sight when winger Oscar Williams finished off a handling move in the corner. Alfie Fisher stepped up to convert a superb kick from the touchline.

With a minute to go Bideford failed to deal with the Bude re-start and Bude regained possession and scored under the posts to take the match 33–28.

Bideford take a team to Withycombe this week in a bid to improve and learn how to manage their game better.

Minis and Juniors

U15s

Bideford U15s 29–19 Newton Abbot

A fantastic performance from the boys today, securing an impressive 29–19 victory over Newton Abbot as part of the Exeter Chiefs PDG trials!

What makes this result even more special is the context. This was only our second game, while Newton Abbot had already played six fixtures without loss.

The boys delivered one of their best performances to date, demonstrating just how much progress they are making and how effectively they are transferring their training onto the pitch.

Our defensive organisation, shape and work rate, combined with some excellent attacking rugby, was incredible to watch.

The performance also attracted plenty of positive feedback from opposition coaches, with the academy and Newton Abbot coaching staff particularly impressed by what they saw.

A huge credit to the players for their commitment, concentration and willingness to buy into what we’re building.

Plenty more to come!