​POOR decision making and handling was blamed for Barnstaple's defeat to Cleve.

Despite having the better of the possession and territory in the second half, Barum were beaten 29-20 at Pottington Road on Saturday.

They conceded four soft tries to Cleve who moved 10 points clear of their hosts in the National Three South West table.

Barum director of rugby Kevin Squire said: "It's a sickener. They scored two tries through interceptions and two kick-and-chase tries, all as a result of us being guilty of mistakes.

"They will be thinking they have done well to get the points.

"We worked our way back into the game (at 22-20 down) and were camped down their end, but poor decisions at the wrong times cost us.

"There were a lot unfortunate errors and that is down to individuals.

"You expect everyone at this level to be able to pass and handle the ball but we weren't good enough in that area and it hurt us.

"Individual errors add up and the collective result is an untidy performance."

See Thursday's Journal for photos from the game and news and views from Barnstaple Rugby Club.