Plymouth Argaum succumbed to their first defeat of 2026 when they went down 24-12 to a youthful and talented Wells side and exited the RFU Counties 3 Championship Cup at the last 16 stage. The fixture was rescheduled from last week due to bad weather and although there was a fair amount of rainfall during the week, groundsman Toby Liberson pulled out all the stops to get the pitch playable. Some decent rugby was played in what was a hard fought contest between two sides meeting for the first time.

Spurred on by a large contingent of travelling support it was the visitors who got into their stride first with a good set of phases down the slope to score the opening try. Argaum hit back with their powerful driving game, a feature of recent matches, and equalised with a try from Will Lloyd after 10 minutes. In a match that was end to end, Wells capitalized on a kick and chase to gain their second try, which was converted to lead 12-5. With their tails up the gained good territory in the Argaum 22 and from a short lineout drove over in the corner. An excellent conversion from the touchline,made it 19-5 and Chiefs needed a reaction. This they did achieve working their way patiently up the field and almost scoring from close drives on a couple of occasions. The visiting defence was well organised and the back row in particular gained a number of turnovers throughout the afternoon.

Turning around 12 points down at half time, Chiefs were still well in the game with the slope advantage but ideally needed the first score. Unfortunately this went to the visitors who handled well in the conditions and went over for a crucial fourth try. With this unconverted, Argaum still had a chance but a series of penalties led to a yellow card which further hampered their chances. Conditions worsened as rain swept in across the pitch to disrupt what had hitherto been a pleasant winters afternoon. The Chiefs continued to defend valiantly and prevent Wells from any further scores and in the last 10 minutes laid seige to the visitors line. Once again, the pick and go game proved effective and after being held up over the line, Argaum's persistence was finally rewarded when Coach Dean Avery touched down after a series of tap penalties. It was no more than the home side deserved and Cheyenne Edwards added the conversion to make the final score 24-12 to Wells.

Argaum may reflect on some opportunities that went begging through the afternoon but there is no doubt that they defended stoutly against a Wells side that is yet to lose this season. The national cup hopes may be over for this year but Argaum will look forward to entering again next year. Congratulations are in order to Wells, who stayed behind in the clubhouse to watch the Six Nations. In the end their youth and superior fitness probably told and we wish them the best of luck in the Quarter Finals.

For post match reaction from coach Dean Avery and more match photos please visit Plymouth Sports Gazette.