Sat 9 Oct 2021
In search of their second win of the season, Kingsbridge left Bideford frustrated. Kings fell agonisingly close as they lost 29-26, in a game they did not deserve to lose. Showing glimpses of what this team could achieve, they dominated the game for long periods, but simple errors left them ruing what might have been.
The first 10 minutes of the game were all about Kings as they constantly attacked, the effervescent Canavali making inroads to the Bideford defense. The tide turned as, once again, Kings fell foul of a referee. A series of penalties put Bideford back into the game, and it wasn’t long before they scored the game’s first points with a converted try. Kings responded almost immediately, as a high tackle penalty saw Banfield put a great kick deep into the Bideford 22, and from the lineout, a driving maul saw Vincent crash over. The much-improved boot of Banfield adding the extra. Back came Bideford as they launched a series of attacks and Kings defense held well, until a couple of missed tackles saw the burly Bideford center carve through to score. Kings continued to dominate possession but couldn’t find their way through, leaving the half time score 12-7
The second half started with Kings seeking the second score, and it so nearly came with a quick tap penalty by Canavali and a great carry from Harris to Banfield , who then found Baldry running a wonderful line to break clean through, only for the pass to be adjudged forward. Against the run of play, Bideford extended their lead with a slick backs move, scoring a converted try. They soon added to that with a penalty. Kingsbridge responded with an excellent try after a powerful drive, which saw Partridge break out and gallop over the line. Banfield adding the extra. Kings drew even closer after a brilliant break by Baldry, who picked up from the base of a maul, saw the gap and sprinted over. Banfield again converting. The see-saw game swung Bideford’s way as they came back strongly to score a converted try. Another great take from Buckle at the restart saw Newman carve an opening, with Harris and Cope combining to take Kings to the line, and Vincent, once again, on hand to score. Banfield missing narrowly, leaving the final score 29-26.
A much-improved performance by Kings, who can take heart from this performance, although they would be seriously helped if they could take a full squad away with them.
