‘Second would be great achievement’ for Crediton

CREDITON coach Stuart Lowe is not dwelling too long on another promotion near miss in Two South West.

Crediton finished second behind St Austell last season and will be runners-up again if they win at Truro this Saturday.

Even if Crediton lose they cannot finish any lower than fourth in the table – and only them if Wadebridge and Topsham defeat Chard and Cullompton respectively.

Whether Crediton finish second, third or fourth, Lowe said the club has plenty to be proud of.

“Ultimately, with all the injuries we have had this year, a top-four finish would be a great achievement,” said Lowe

“A number of young players have had to step up this season, which has also been a big plus, and they will develop further next year.

“We still have a number of players out injured, so a few players will be given an opportunity against Truro.”

Looking to the future Lowe said there will be a review of the league season once it is over with the focus on areas for improvement.

Lowe said that does not mean there will be a list of improvements to address. “The club is moving in the right direction,” he said.

“Not many Devon clubs put out three men’s teams, colts and a ladies team each weekend and that is some achievement.”

Only Tiverton and Barnstaple get third teams out on a regular basis, although Exmouth Nomads have played a handful of competitive games this season.

Cullompton bring down the curtain on the 2023-24 season by making the short trip down the M5 to face Topsham.

The two sides were promoted from Western Counties West last season and have both looked at home at the next level up.

Topsham can still manage a topthree finish while Cullompton already know they will be fifth in the final standings.

“Top five, top six was our aim when we came up so we cannot complain,” said Steve Luxon, the director of rugby at Cullompton.