Almost there: Brixham just a win away from big trip to Twickenham

RIXHAM are 80 minutes away from a trip to Twickenham after pipping arch rivals Barnstaple for a place in the last four of the Papa John’s Community Championship.

- by CONRAD SUTCLIFFE

Although Barnstaple triumphed 24-18 the second leg at Pottington Road, that was not enough to overturn Brixham’s nine-point lead from the first leg, which they won 47-38.

Standing between Brixham and Twickenham are Oundle, who visit Astley Park this Saturday for a oneoff semi-final. There are no second chances in the last four.

With so much at stake itis no wonder Brixham coach Adam Thomas started doing homework on Oundle within hours of the final whistle at Barnstaple.

“Oundle have not lost all season in their league - that tells you something - and from the videos I have seen they like to throw the ball around and play coast-to-coast rugby,” said Thomas.

“It’s got to be the biggest game in our history and the club is buzzing at the thought of it.

“The challenge for the playing side of the club is to stay focused on winning the next game, not thinking about the possible one after that. It is important to remember we are not there yet!”

The Fishermen were only ahead briefly in the first half against Barnstaple - and with 20 minutes to go they trailed 24-13, which put the home side two points ahead on aggregate.