Events/News

Salcombe
v
Plymouth Argaum
10th January 2026

Salcombe were out for retribution this weekend, anticipating a bruising return fixture after their defeat to Plymouth Arguam earlier in the season. The match carried extra significance, not only for the Salcombe squad but also for the many supporters in attendance and to the Tooke family, with the afternoon beginning with a moving minute’s applause in memory of Seb.

The opening moments were dramatic, as what must be one of the quickest tries in league history set the tone. From the kick-off, a handling error was ruthlessly capitalised on by Argaum, leaving Salcombe trailing 7–0 almost immediately. That early setback proved the wake-up call the home side needed. Regrouping well, Salcombe’s defence began to fire, with dominant tackles and aggressive line speed keeping the powerful Argaum forwards at bay. Despite sustained pressure, the visitors were limited to a single penalty, and by half-time Arguam held a 10–0 advantage.

The second half belonged, for a time, to Salcombe, and in particular to young Tom Langley, who looked as though someone had slipped him some extra Haribo at the break. Time and again he cut through the Argaum back line with pace and precision, completing a superb hat-trick that swung the momentum firmly in Salcombe’s favour and brought the home crowd to life.

However, it was not to be Salcombe’s day. In a tense and dramatic finale, Plymouth Argaum struck with a converted try in the dying minutes to edge ahead by a single point, sealing a 22–21 victory at the final whistle.

Despite the heartbreak, the Crabs can hold their heads high. They forced the visitors to fight until the very end and played with real pride and commitment in the shirt. Man of the Match was deservedly awarded to Tom Langley for his outstanding performance, and the team would like to extend their thanks to the bar staff and everyone at the Victoria Inn for their excellent post-match hospitality.