WIVELISCOMBE went down to only their third defeat of the season when they lost 29-17 away to in-form Torquay Athletic in Counties One Western West, writes Roger Bellamy.

It turned out to be a testing afternoon for Wiveliscombe against a team who had won their last six league matches.

A strong wind throughout the game had an affect on ball handling with both teams struggling to retain possession and player discipline being tested on several occasions.

Torquay were eager to keep their winning run intact and started well, scoring an early try through flanker George Mills, Flyhalf Lewis Crocker converted.

Wiveliscombe pulled level with centre Will Ruell showing good strength to pierce the home defence to score near the post, Dan Quick converted.

Torquay regained the lead with a penalty from Crocker before a period pressure by Wiveliscombe near the home team’s try line resulted in a try from second row Dan Smythe-Moore.

Torquay opened up a 22pts-12 lead before the half time whistle with fullback Billy Whalley and centre Morgan Alcock crossing for tries. Crocker added one conversion.

The second half became a bit of a dog fight with both teams struggling to find any continuity, The home team increased their lead with a try from winger Ryan Hanauer converted by Crocker.

Wiveliscombe had the final say with left wing Jack Lee showing good pace to cross in the corner.

Wiveliscombe still have a seven point lead over second place Paignton who surprisingly lost to Plymstock Oaks.

This Saturday, April 18, Wiveliscombe host Barnstaple 2nd XV (2.30 KO. Paignton host Torquay. Wiveliscombe 2nd XV travel to Weston Super mare for their final league match.

Wiveliscombe’s second fifteen had a tough afternoon against Bridgwaters seconds, going down 54pts-15. John Palk and Lewis May crossed for Wiveliscombe’s tries with Cameron Palk adding one penalty and conversion.