Sidmouth Stun Champions but Face Play-Off Heartbreak

Sidmouth produced one of their performances of the season to defeat league champions Devonport Services in a thrilling 37–34 contest — but results elsewhere mean they must now prepare for a relegation play-off.

The home side started brightly and took the lead early on. Sustained pressure on the Devonport line paid off when Ben Phillips crossed for the opening try, though the conversion was missed.

Sidmouth doubled their advantage soon after, with Nathan Tomkins finishing off a quick tap-and-go to make it 10–0.

Devonport responded in champion fashion. A well-worked move saw their blindside winger come into the line to score, before an interception try — both converted — swung the game in their favour at 14–10.

However, Sidmouth hit back just before the break. After a series of powerful pick-and-go phases, Dan Armstrong crashed over, and Jake Smith held his nerve to slot a difficult touchline conversion, giving Sidmouth a 17–14 lead at half time.

The second half mirrored the first, with Sidmouth starting fast. Shaun Malton powered over following sustained pressure, and Smith added the extras to extend the lead to 24–14.

Moments later, Sidmouth produced a moment of magic. From the restart, the ball was moved wide to Cian Warren, who chipped cleverly ahead, gathered, and raced clear to score, pushing the lead to 29–14.

Devonport once again showed their quality, responding with a well-executed lineout try before adding another through patient forward play to close the gap to 29–24.

Sidmouth answered at a crucial moment. A slick backs move saw Jake Smith break through, fend off his defender, and sprint in to score, extending the lead to 34–24. Smith then added a crucial penalty from 40 metres to make it 37–24.

The champions refused to lie down. Two late tries brought Devonport back within three points, setting up a tense finale, but Sidmouth held on for a deserved 37–34 victory.

Despite the win, there was heartbreak for Sidmouth. Elsewhere, Launceston secured a five-point victory away at Topsham, meaning both sides finished level on 50 league points. With Launceston holding a superior points difference, Sidmouth are now forced into a relegation play-off.

Sidmouth will host Chew Valley on Saturday 25 April in a must-win clash to retain their league status.