Pinpoint Park puts students on course

By FREYA COLLINGTON

Exeter Uni……… 24pts 

Bournville……… 10pts

EXETER came out on top in a fiercelycontested clash with Bournville.

The Midlands side made their intentions clear from the outset, seizing an early lead as Jacob Fewtrell coolly slotted a penalty.

The early setback served as a wake-up call for Exeter who quickly shifted gears and began to assert their authority on the game.

Despite Bournville's initial advantage, the majority of the play was centered around midfield, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess and maintaining relentless pressure.

Exeter's persistence paid off when Kane James produced a moment of individual brilliance, slicing through Bournville's defence with a well-timed break. With Billy Kucera in support, a swift offload found Tirion Bowen, who powered over the try line to give Exeter their first score. Jack Park's precision kicking added the extras.

As the first half progressed, Exeter continued to dictate proceedings, with their disciplined play and clinical execution keeping Bournville on the back foot.

Bournville's frustration boiled over, leading to a string of penalties that further fueled Exeter's momentum. Park capitalised on Bournville's indiscipline, extending Exeter's lead with another successful penalty, taking the score to 10-3 as half-time loomed.

The second half saw Exeter pick up where they left off as Conor Byrne showcased his determination with a courageous dive over the try line. Park's unerring accuracy with the boot ensured the conversion, stretching Exeter's lead to 17-3 and putting Bournville under increasing pressure.

Despite facing an uphill battle, Bournville refused to concede defeat and launched a spirited comeback attempt.

However, Exeter's stout defence and clinical execution thwarted their efforts. Consecutive penalties against Bournville gave Exeter the perfect platform to assert their dominance once again, with Owain Watts bulldozing his way over the try line from close range. Park's flawless kicking display continued, extending Exeter's lead to 24-3.

In a late surge, Bournville managed to breach Exeter's defence, with Oliver Stone crashing over for a last-minute try. Williams' successful conversion added a valuable seven points to Bournville's tally, but it proved to be a mere consolation as Exeter emerged victorious with a commanding 24-10 win.

The match showcased the competitive spirit and determination of both teams, with Exeter ultimately edging out Bournville in a hardfought battle.

Centre of the action: Tirion Bowen goes over for Exeter's first try of the day and, below, Exeter's captain, Ronan Kelly runs at Bournville's defence

PICTURES: Gary House