The Devon U18s girls hosted the Cornwall U18s girls on a rare, sunny afternoon in Okehampton, a delightful backdrop for an exhilarating rugby clash. The match was a thrilling display of skill, determination, and teamwork, culminating in a 39-14 victory for Devon.

The first half was a closely contested affair. Devon started with intent, immediately putting Cornwall under pressure. Inside centre Sophie Piper opened the scoring, followed shortly after by second row Maddison Cliff. With two converted tries in the opening 10 minutes, Devon established an early dominance. However, Cornwall fought back valiantly, using skilful, simple passages of play to level the score at 14-14 by half-time.

The second half remained evenly matched for a good 20 minutes, with both teams defending resolutely. However, Devon found another gear in the final 15, showcasing their attacking strength with a late surge of five well-executed tries. Piper secured her second try of the match, while centre Phoebe Ogborne added two more, on her clubs home turf. Number 8 Evelyn Prescott and flanker Savannah Vertessy also crossed the line, cementing the victory for Devon.

Special credit must go to the Devon scrum, which proved a formidable force throughout the game. Cornwall’s forwards were forced to dig deep to contend with the power and precision of the home side’s pack.

Individual performances also stood out. Sophie Piper not only opened the scoring with an impressive solo effort but also provided crucial momentum during a challenging period for the Devon backs. In the forwards, hooker Amy Mears was a defensive powerhouse, delivering aggressive tackles that stifled Cornwall’s attacks. Captains Connie Eastwood (prop) and Aoife Underhill (fly half) demonstrated outstanding leadership and composure, guiding their team to victory.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Okehampton RFC for their exceptional hospitality. As always, they provided an excellent venue and warm support for both teams, ensuring the match was an enjoyable experience for players and spectators alike.

Devon U18s girls have now extended their unbeaten streak to 11 games. They face their next challenge on Sunday, 16th February, traveling to Cheltenham Tigers to take on Gloucestershire in what promises to be a tough battle.

SUNDAYS SQUAD

1 – Connie Eastwood – Kingsbridge
2 – Amy Mears – Devonport
3 – Annabelle Robertson – Exmouth
4 – Emma Britton – Cullompton
5 – Maddison Cliff – Exmouth
6 – Savannah Vertessy – Ivybridge
7 – Isabel Gibbs – Exeter Saracens
8 – Matilda Bennett – Sidmouth
9 – Rachel Curtis – Crediton
10 – Aoife Underhill – Exeter Saracens
11 – Lily Richter – Bideford
12 – Sophie Piper – Exmouth
13 – Phoebe Ogborne – Okehampton
14 – Indie May Evans – Devonport
15 – Grace Scott – Teignmouth
FINISHERS
16 – Poppy Harrison – Crediton
17 – Freya M – Teignmouth
18 – Alice Norris – Cullompton
19 – Maddison Spampanato – Exeter College
20 – Evelyn Prescott – Cullompton
21 – Amelia Benfield – Kingsbridge
22 – Mia Hammond – Cullompton
23 – Alissia Stephen’s – Newton Abbot
TRAVELLING RESERVES:
Bea Hooper – Exmouth
Freya Vitali-Baker – Devonport