BUDE'S Merit Table game on Saturday proved to be the tough encounter they expected against a well organised outfit.

There was no official referee available, so both sides were happy for Bude's Derek Hart to take the whistle.

The afternoon was ideal for rugby and for the first quarter both sides were evenly matched.

The visitors' catch and drive was working well from the line-outs, and as they drove forwards their number eight peeled off and scored a try converted by the scrum half.

Bude were quick to reply and spinning the ball into the backs, centre Ryan Butler stepped past his opposite number and jinked through to touchdown.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.