Hornets RFC

Hornets took the relatively short trip to Exeter University in the latest National League 2 West fixture hoping to get the elusive away victory but lost a potential bonus point in the last play of the game.

Going by previous encounters this was likely to be a lively game as the Students are always out to impress and this game didn’t disappoint.

Exeter came out of the blocks at full tilt and instantly had Hornets under huge pressure and got an early try with only 3 minutes gone.7-0.

Hornets are aware of their opponents attack and were struggling to contain their strong, fast runners and Exeter got within a kicking distance for a penalty shot at goal which was successful.10-0.

Exeter with their tails up attacked at will and when Fin Davis was yellow carded the hosts got another and a 17 point lead.

Hornets although down to 14 started to assert their skill and with plenty of penalties going to the visitors they were getting close to Exeter’s line and a 5m lineout looked like bringing rewards but the forwards held just short and the backs unable to make inroads.

Davis was back as Exeter had a yellow of their own but Hornets couldn’t break through a solid defensive line. Alas just before halftime Chris Francis received a yellow card and parity again and the half finished 17-0.

The second half started similar to the first as Hornets were attempting to get a foothold but it was Exeter who got the first score of the half and 22-0.

It was starting to look grim for Hornets but with a couple of changes to personnel they began to cause problems. A penalty kick to the corner and Hornets had a lineout 10m out and Davis secured the ball and the pack were able to march the students back and it was Matt Parker who was able to go over and Charlie Carter converted.22-7.

More penalties by Exeter and Hornets again were within striking distance with a lineout and this time it was Tom Simms who got the try again converted by Carter 22-14 and Exeter were stunned.

Hornets had a scrum on halfway and solid platform set the backs off and Carter cut the line for a break and the ball shipped to Henry Gliddon to score in the corner. 22-19 and game on.

With one final restart to go Hornets just had to hang on for the point but alas, the restart was stolen by Exeter and they managed to squeeze over to deflate the Hornets team as the final whistle blew Exeter 29 Hornets 19.

Although a strong performance away from home Hornets failed to secure the much-needed bonus point and were even looking at an unlikely victory.

Big game for Hornets next week as the rearranged game away at Barnstaple.