Crediton Vets 77 - Exeter Saracens Vets 0

IN the newly formed Devon Vets League Crediton made it two wins from two games with a 13-try romp against Exeter Saracens Vets.

With one or two players not having seen action for 12 years or so, the management decided on an initial warm up which consisted of very gentle floor exercises, stretching and some fast-paced walking rugby drills.

Sadly, this proved too much for centre Andy Bluff, (last seen in the 2015-16 season) who never made it to the kick off due to hamstring issues although he will be credited with an appearance for at least making the warm up. On the brighter side though, he was awarded the Dick of the Day Award.

Sarries put up a brave performance but the Crediton backs proved far too strong and play consisted of a few short balls in the middle of the park, quick ball to the backs resulting in plenty of space out wide for some deft hands, strong running and thirst for the try line.

This was the winning combination which saw Crediton cross the whitewash 13 times. Exeter Saracens came close a few times to scoring, but Crediton managed to keep them out.

Dan May (last seen in 2022) scored three tries, Brad Baker (not even close to retirement) touched down twice, Eddie Yeandle (who never really retired) once and Chris Simpson, our adopted Aussie, whose try count on the day of two equalled his highest score in the 2024 cricket season.

Andy McLoud (retired in 2014 – centre in those days but has let himself go a bit now!) scored a classic winger’s try, Patrick Pellens, a new recruit, also scored a try. Mike Pearce (not seen since 2018) scored once as did Jamie Cheffins (retired in 2020) and fullback Gareth Mason (retired in 2022) scored a magnificent solo try from our own in goal area (or so he dreamed).

Part time Aussie "Simmo" surely would have scored another try if he hadn't tripped himself up with five metres to go. John Milton was looking fast and strong and may have scored, if his hamstring hadn't blown after 15 minutes.

Ross Toms managed five conversions from twelve attempts, a below par performance by his own standards and did not compare favourably with Brad Baker who had a 100 per cent record from his one attempt and which, together with his own try after sprinting from the half way earned him the Man of The Match award, well done Bradley.

We now look forward to welcoming South Molton Vets to Blagdon on February 22.

Gareth Mason