A CONVERTED try from Jack Bond, who will now hang up his rugby boots, secured Teignmouth RFC a 36-34 victory at the death in their relegation playoff clash against Cullompton.

They hosted Cully at Bitton Park on Saturday, April 25, and the visitors put the first three points on the board before Jason Jervis’ unconverted try edged the hosts ahead.

The fixture would continue to go back-and-forth in the Saturday sunshine, Cullompton slotting another penalty to make it 5-6.

An impressive kick and chase from the experienced Jack Mayne brought about Teignmouth’s second try and in the clubhouse corner no less. Luke Atkinson added the extras.

Cullompton may have struck next with seven points of their own but prop Mat Dowrick found himself on the wing and made no mistake in responding for the hosts.

Mayne nailed the conversion and then added a penalty to give Teignmouth a 22-13 lead at the turnaround.

Passions were high heading into the second-half and Teignmouth found themselves a man down for 10 minutes as the referee got a yellow card out.

Cully ate into the deficit with one converted try and as they went in search of another, Teigns’ resolute defending came up trumps. Shortly after, they were celebrating a score of their own at the other end, fly-half Luke Atkinson touching the ball down.

A second yellow going the way of Teignmouth offered Cullompton another route back into the battle, moving within striking distance yet again.

Two converted tries flipped the script in their favour at 29-34.

With time running out, the speedy Jack Bond remained calm and crossed for a crucial try. Also keeping his cool was Jack Mayne, whose conversion made all the difference.

Seconds remained and from the kick-off, Teignmouth kicked the ball straight out to secure the win and retain their place in the league.

The man of the match award was shared by the whole team for their teamwork and determination.