RUGBY: Burnham-on-Sea thrashed by Exeter University in Western Counties West away match

BURNHAM’S 1st XV have been plunged right back into the thick of the relegation battle after a thumping defeat at the hands of league leaders Exeter University on Saturday.

Burnham have struggled on the road all season but, having beaten the students in the reverse fixture, travelled with confidence that they could cause another upset having also defeated high-flying Devonport on the previous weekend.

The damage was done in the first half, however, as the hosts racked up a 50-0 lead to put the result beyond doubt by the interval.

The second half was tighter as Burnham toughened their defensive resolve to ship only 12 after the break, but the visitors were left to rue their poor start that ultimately cost them the match.

Matt Morris stole the show for the hosts with a hat-trick, added to by Max Himbury (2), Sal M’boge, Max Tamplin, Josh Pieters, Harry Ryder and goal-kicker Sam Morley, who also kicked six conversions to keep the scoreboard ticking over.

Burnham’s defeat combined with victories for relegation rivals Crediton and Tiverton means the Somerset side are now second bottom with three matches to play.

THIS weekend, Burnham host mid-table Torquay Athletic in a match they will see as a good opportunity to pick up a vital win.

The side level on points with Burnham, Bude, have a much tougher assignment as they host second-placed Cullompton, so a Burnham victory could be pivotal in the scrap for survival.

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BURNHAM’s 2nd XV were also defeated last weekend, going down 30-24 at home to Minehead Barbarians in Somerset 2 South.

The defeat ensures Burnham remain in mid-table ahead of Saturday’s trip to Wiveliscombe 2nds.