Newton Abbot Spartans keep a tight hold on top spot in Devon Merit One after recording their fifth maximum point win when outscoring Paignton six tries to four to run out 40-22 winners.

Bagging two of the tries was hooker Charlie Dore.

However, it wasn’t all plain sailing as the visitors were far more competitive in the second half having trailed 33-10 at the break.

Newton were grateful for their half-time advantage which was established in the better conditions as the game became more attritional as the weather closed in and Paignton used some of their bulkier ball carriers to good effect.

Full report in the Friday, October 6 edition of the Mid-Devon Advertiser.