Torrington take top billing with resounding win over Brixham Albion

It is not often that Torrington get to sit at the top table of North Devon rugby reports but the opening weekend of 2026 belonged to the men in green, as they romped to an excellent 49-12 win over Brixham Albion.

The hosts found themselves on the back foot in the opening stages and conceded the first try to trail 0–7. Torrington responded through Tom Early, who crossed to reduce the deficit to 5–7, although the conversion was missed. Brixham then added a second try to extend their lead to 5–12, taking advantage of Torrington’s early lack of accuracy.

Rather than forcing the issue, Torrington settled into the game and began to build momentum. Ben Sawyer’s try narrowed the gap to 10–12, before Gregor Boundy crossed to give Torrington a 15–12 lead. Further scores from Will Brown and Tom Owen saw Torrington move 25–12 ahead by half-time.

The second half began in cagey fashion, with both sides contesting territory and possession. Torrington remained patient and continued to apply pressure, gradually asserting control as the game wore on.

Will Brown added his second try to make it 30–12, before Nick Evans crossed and converted to extend the lead to 37–12. Brown then completed his hat-trick, and Torrington finished strongly with a late try from Evans, converted by Tom Eastabrook, to seal a 49–12 victory.

Will Brown led the scoring with a hat-trick, while further tries came from Nick Evans (2), Tom Early, Ben Sawyer, Gregor Boundy, and Tom Owen. Conversions were added by Nick Evans and Tom Eastabrook. Keelan Neilson was named Man of the Match for an outstanding all-round performance.

Speaking after the match, Torrington Head Coach Nick Evans said: “We didn’t start the way we wanted to and Brixham deservedly punished us early on, but I was really pleased with how the group responded. We stayed calm, didn’t chase the game, and gradually built control. The scoreline is pleasing, but more importantly it showed maturity, patience, and a real togetherness within the squad.”

Bideford Chiefs played out a tight 15-15 draw at OPM, while the Ladies dominated Cullompton with a 41-0 victory. South Molton slipped to a 32-17 loss at Honiton, while Barnstaple Chiefs were beaten 41-24 at Hornets and the Athletic suffered a narrow reverse at Plymstock Oaks.