Sat 20 Sep 2025, 14:30
A Miserable Day In Barnstaple.
Hornets took to the road for the first time this season and in miserable stormy weather came away having been well beaten and without any points.
After two big wins at home the away trip proved to be a hard day in heavy rain.
With confidence, Hornets struggled in the conditions and the intensity of a well drilled home side.
It didn't start well for Hornets and they conceded a try in the first 2 minutes as Barnstaple set out their intentions and this was followed by another try before 10 minutes were on the clock and Barnstaple had a 14 point lead.
Hornets then began to apply some pressure but struggled to get over the line but Skipper Kieran Ward was on hand to finish a fine move and some hope, and Carter's conversion hit the post.14-5
Barnstaple were dictating the game and were rewarded with 2 more tries before halftime and had an unassailable lead going into the break 28-5.
The second half didn't start any better than the first as Danny Bailey took a team yellow card for too many penalties and Barnstaple scored another 35-5 the Biblical weather was having a big effect on play.
For the next 15 minutes Hornets were camped on the line of the hosts, but maybe some wrong options and sound defence kept them out until after 63 minutes Barnstaple had a yellow card for far too many penalties on their line which could on another day, have led to a penalty try.
From one of the said penalties Tom Read barged over and the conversion by Charlie Carter and the aim now was to pick up at least a bonus point try as soon after Read went over again.35-17.
However right on the final whistle Barnstaple broke out and scored in the corner to seal a fine win for the hosts.
Final Score Barnstaple 40 Hornets 17.
A disappointing day for this very young team and some valuable experience gained as this league proves there are no easy games and you have to be on top form every week to get a result.
Hornets now will look forward to regain some form as 2nd placed unbeaten Cinderford visit The Nest on Saturday kick off 3pm.
