Cornwall and Devon Division: Bideford 28, Wellington 0.

WELLINGTON suffered another league defeat to drop into the bottom four and leave relegation a distinct possibility, writes Paul Waygood.

From the referee's starting whistle at King Georges Field, Wellington were on the back foot, with no one taking the responsibility to commit to gaining possession. This set the standard for the first half, with Bideford dominating the territorial advantage.

Chris Snell kicked two penalties for the home side, but, as the half came to a close, Andrew Loosemore outstripped the Wellington defence and ran in a fine try from the touchline. Wellington went into the break at 11-0 in arrears.

After the interval, Wellington began to gain some territorial advantage, which was a welcome relief to the few travelling supporters. However this relief was shortlived, with Bideford's lively backs breaking from their own 22 on numerous occasions.

After 52 minutes Bideford consolidated their lead with three points from an Olly Wickett penalty kick.

The playing conditions from this point deteriorated with driving rain blown across the pitch from the estuary of the river Tor.

Wellington were now battling the game out with vigour, but after conceding a penalty in their 22 they conceded another crossing of the whitewash with Sam Olde taking the five points. Wickett again converted to give his side a healthy 21-0 lead.

Throughout the second half, Wellington's forwards were probably the better of the two packs, but time and time again play was quickly moved to an attacking position for Bideford, with incisive running from backs, Snell, Loosemoore and Olde.

Bideford broke again from a scrum in their own 22 and after a mazy run, Olde touched down for his second try. Wickett again converted.

Wellington's forwards doggedly gained ground into Bideford's half and replacement, Tim Jenkinson, carrying a groin strain, injected fury and anger into Wellington's play, but it was too little, too late.