Team Bath Buccs 1st XI player Tim Davenport reflects on a disappointing draw with Exeter...
Sunday's result wasn't really what either side were after as we look to keep the pressure on those above us.
While I thought we were probably the better team on the day, I also felt we didn't really get out of second gear for much of the game and our lack of intensity cost us two points.
We didn't seem to create many clear-cut opportunities during the game and, when we did, we were snuffed out by a resolute Exeter back-line. Our visitors, on the other hand, took advantage of some sloppy defending and made us pay.
On the positive side we showed real grit and determination to save a point – one that just might keep us in with a shout of winning the division. From that perspective, we have to take some positives from the game.
Even I thought it was over when Exeter scored their third goal but our never-say-die attitude kept us going right to the final whistle. It was a great moment to see defender Tom Griffiths pop up in the circle to make it 3-3. Griff barely makes it beyond the halfway line in most games and I don't think anyone quite knew why it was him who ended up on the ball, unmarked in the Exeter D.
Anyone watching would have thought he was a natural-born finisher when he slotted home with consummate ease to the delight of our relieved home crowd.
Despite finishing the game on a high like that, there was a real sense of deflation amongst the squad in our post-match huddle. I think we all knew we had missed a golden opportunity and let ourselves down with a below-par performance.
We'll hope to get back to winning ways next week when we travel to Birmingham University. We can expect a tough game up there but hopefully Sunday's draw will spark a positive response.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
