Honiton RFC slipped to a muddy 13-19 against league leaders Barnstaple, writes Jerry Rice.

Honiton, playing up the field in the first half, had their share of possession in the first ten minutes but a catch and drive saw the visitors rumble over for the first score, 0-5. Moments later, Honiton countered and were rewarded with a penalty that skipper Jonny House converted, 3-5.

Things were even until Honiton scored on 35 minutes, a neat show and go saw Ollie Rice dot down but the conversion was missed. Nip and tuck from then on and half-time came with the Ton 10-5 ahead.

After 20 minutes of the second half and no one getting any advantage, Barnstaple scored and converted, so Honiton were now down 10-12. Playing up the hill the visitors started to get control and then scored again from a good break from a set scrum, this was converted, 10-19.

Honiton bounced back and House knocked over a penalty 13-19. Things got very tense in the last five minutes as Honiton went close but Barnstable held out and the final whistle went. Honiton had to settle with a losing bonus point but still an entertaining game.