Yeovil brought an end to Okehampton’s impressive unbeaten streak on Sunday in what proved to be a blockbuster top-of-the-table encounter between two sides meeting for the first time this season. The match was played with grit, determination, and no shortage of physicality from the first whistle to the last.

Both teams matched each other in intensity early on, but it was Yeovil who struck first after half an hour, capitalising from close range following a spell of stubborn Oke defence to lead 0–7.

The Oke women refused to let the setback break their resolve, trading blows at both ends of the pitch. However, just before half-time Yeovil found a way through again, crossing the whitewash at short range to carry a 0–14 advantage into the break.

Although Okehampton haven’t often found themselves trailing recently, the side showed real passion and belief after the restart, even as the conditions deteriorated with driving rain blowing in off the moors.

With momentum building downhill, it didn’t take long for the breakthrough to come. A powerful line from Jenna saw her crash over for Oke’s first points of the match, though the conversion fell just short (5–14).

The restart saw Okehampton turn up the pressure in both attack and defence. Sustained pressure forced an error at the back, with a kick from Garnet putting Yeovil’s fullback under pressure. The resulting clearance found Garnet again, who darted under the posts for Oke’s second try. Issy added the extras to narrow the gap to just two points (12–14).

With twenty minutes remaining, Oke battled valiantly through worsening conditions, but Yeovil’s defence held firm as they clung on for the win. The final score of 12–14 earned Oke a well-deserved losing bonus point and leaves the sides now joint-top of the league.

Congratulations to Yeovil on their victory — a fantastic showcase of grassroots rugby and a true top-of-the-table clash.

Forward of the Match went to captain Becky Dennis (sponsored by Stevens Estate Agents), while Back of the Match was awarded to Jo McBain (sponsored by Blackhall Holdings).

We also proudly presented our first 50-cap pin badges to Issy Edworthy, Becky Dennis, Amy Lethbridge, and Sophie Wiseman — a tremendous achievement and an inspiration to the next generation of Oke women and girls. Here’s to the next 50 and beyond!

Next Up:
Okehampton return to the Showground this Sunday, 18 January, hosting Dings Crusaders Mavericks for a 2:30pm kick-off. Your support is hugely appreciated as the Oke’s look to bounce back and return to winning ways!