Brixham 57 – 41 Marlborough
Saturday saw the 1st XV travel back down to Devon for their first encounter with Brixham on their home turf. The sun was shining, and it felt more like summer—a perfect day to be by the coast.
Marlborough started strong but had a try disallowed in the first minute. The boys lapse in focus allowed the home side to rack up 18 unanswered points, along with a yellow card for Marlborough. However, with strong leadership from skipper James Farrell, Marlborough rallied, scoring two quick tries. Farrell himself scored one, and debutant Wate Kuli added the other, with Kuli’s try converted by Sione Matakaiongo (Jay). The poor stadium announcer struggled with Jay’s name all game.
Brixham responded with a converted try and a penalty. Then what followed was pure poetry in motion: Akariva Seruvatu (Aka) danced and twirled his way to the try line from halfway, scoring a converted try that left defenders and spectators alike in disbelief. In the dying moments of the first half, Marlborough received another yellow.
Half-Time: Brixham 28 – 19 Marlborough
Brixham quickly opened the second half with another converted try. Despite some defensive frailties, partly due to players being out of position and newcomers still adjusting to Marlborough’s game plan, Marlborough showed resilience. With fighting spirit and leadership from the seasoned players, Save Tuimatanisaqa managed a close-range try, converted by Jay.
Unfortunately, Brixham displayed their own grit and determination, adding two more converted tries and a penalty. Despite Marlborough’s shaky defense, the boys stayed in the game, ensuring both teams gave their supporters value for their entrance money.
In the 61st minute, Chris Diamond showcased his brilliance with a fantastic individual try, though it went unconverted. Chris is having an exceptional first season with Marlborough. Following a superb buildup and numerous penalties conceded by Brighton, along with a yellow card, new winger Semisi Drauvaki scored in the corner, with Jay adding the conversion.
Unfortunately, it was too late for Marlborough to capitalise on Brixham’s yellow card, as it turned out to be the final play of the game.
This was a far better performance by the boys compared to the previous week, though it wasn’t without its flaws. There are plenty of “workons.” but considering the number of injuries Marlborough has sustained, including both frontline kickers, it’s not all gloom and doom. Hopefully, with a weekend off, a few players might be able to return for the next game.
This was a fast-paced, thrilling match where either team could have claimed victory. The Fishermen, as Brixham’s 1st XV are known, along with their committee and members, were very welcoming. Though Marlborough didn’t secure the win, they didn’t leave empty-handed, taking an all-important point and maintaining their 9th position in the league.as nothing more Marlborough could do. The Cornish All Blacks secured the win.
Final Score: Brixham 57 – 41 Marlborough
Salisbury Road mayhem to continue – until 8 November?, maybe?
