A last-minute penalty has secured a victory for Withycombe against Honiton.

The home team claimed a thrilling 17-16 win, thanks to a penalty in the dying seconds of the match.

Withycombe started strong, dominating territory, but were unable to convert early opportunities into points.

Honiton ranked third in the league, took control in the second quarter, gaining a 0-3 lead after 30 minutes.

Despite a setback with their fly-half Steve Smart being sin-binned for dissent, Honiton extended their lead to 0-16 by the hour mark, with a penalty and a converted try.

However, Withycombe rallied.

Alex Petersen scored their first try, capitalising on a Honiton error.

Tom Cooke's conversion narrowed the gap to 7-16.

With renewed vigour, Withycombe pressed forward.

A cross-field kick found winger Joel Ranft, who scored their second try.

Another Cooke conversion brought the score to 14-16, with ten minutes left to play.

In a dramatic end-to-end battle, Withycombe was awarded a penalty eight metres inside the Honiton half in the 80th minute.

Cooke, once again, delivered with precision, securing the victory for Withycombe to the delight of the home crowd.

This win marks Withycombe's fourth consecutive victory, elevating them to fifth in the league standings after nine matches.