The Okes, despite missing plenty again this week, were still hopeful of a home win against a visiting outfit who are themselves on a bad run of form. The match started in fine, but windy conditions and the hosts hit the ground running. Only three minutes were on the clock when back rower Saul Holliday peeled of the back of a maul to dive over giving the Okes an early advantage. Dan Fogerty added the conversion and things were looking promising. The Okes continued to threaten during the first quarter but couldn't make their territorial advantage pay. The forwards were carrying powerfully throughout this period and the visitors were on the back foot as a result.

Entering the second quarter and the home side began to concede penalties. This allowed Brixham the opportunity to camp in the Okes twenty two. After 23 minutes they bundled over for their first of their three unconverted scores. Okes spent the rest of the half on defensive duties and conceded a second score after another penalty was kicked to the corner on 35 minutes, allowing a score mid way out on the left. It remained 10-7 until the break and Okes returned to the dressing room hoping that the slope in the second half would see them regain the advantage.

The second period commenced and the early stages saw Okes go close, Gareth Espin seemed sure to score but was tackled into touch a yard out. This was soon followed by a missed attempt at posts as Okes sought to regain the lead. Fifteen minutes into the second half Okes had a bad spell which ultimately cost them. First a penalty kick to the corner went dead allowing the visitors to release the growing pressure. They then progressed upfield and kept possession until Okes defence cracked allowing a third, crucial score to the left of the uprights.

The weather worsened significantly, the rain hammered down and the wind increased. Okes play became fractured and their willingness to try and run the ball from deep was admirable, but not wise given the conditions. The boot downfield never arrived and as a result Okes became encamped in their own half. Frustration grew and Okes took a yellow card. Try as they might they made no inroads in the time remaining and the visitors prevented any further scores before the final whistle came.

A frustrating and disappointing defeat, hopefully one the young Okes will learn from as they move towards the last few matches of this testing campaign.There is no match next week, but a trip to Camborne awaits in a fortnights time, your Maroon and amber support would be most welcome.

'Come On You Okes!'