Liskeard-Looe 10 Tiverton 20

ONCE again a slow start by Liskeard-Looe cost them dearly. Within four minutes Tiverton gained a three point lead with a penalty by Cockram. This was followed up shortly after when right wing Paine finished off a fluid movement by touching down wide out. Having conceded eight points in fairly short order, the Lions picked up the tempo and began to get back into the game. The pack started to pick up some decent possession and there was some strong running from the ruck by Ali Hill, Adam Driver, Mike Manders and Rob Andrew. A stout Tiverton defence and the odd bit of poor handling, however, denied them until just before half time when Danny Curgenven forced his way in for a well-deserved try. This improved form was carried into the second half. Good possession from the lineout gave centres John Underwood and Lester Hannah opportunities to make incisive runs into opposition territory. At the breakdown Liskeard-Looe were gaining a good share of the ball, but often too slow to be truly telling. They were not helped by the taking of some wrong options and the good tackling by Tiverton prevented any further score. Midway through the half Tiverton broke out and after a good move fly half Linnell slipped through for a try which Cockram converted. This acted as a boost to the whole Tiverton side, who picked up their game and despite good cover by Liskeard-Looe eventually increased their lead when Paine scored his second try. With About 10 minutes to go and Tiverton leading 20-5, the fear was that Liskeard-Looe would go to pieces. But not so. They never gave up and in fact once again improved their game to a point where they again looked the better side at most phases. Possessions from the breakdown was still slower than would be liked, which allowed Tiverton to reform and keep Liskeard-Looe at bay. They were not to be denied for long and eventually Phil Goldsmith ran in a thoroughly deserved try. Sadly the time left meant that despite territorial advantage Liskeard-Looe were unable to reduce the deficit any further. Liskeard-Looe were pleased to welcome back Adam Driver, whose commitment and aggressive running at all phases of forward play is such an asset, and Julian Shakerley who can play anywhere in the backs. His speed and kicking abilities add an extra dimension in these areas. The learning curve continues. Improvements have been made and while there is plenty of time left in the season, the Lions need to put together a couple of good results, if only to confirm their obvious potential to succeed at this level.