A quick look at the South West Premier results last weekend showed Will Croker his side are not home and dry just yet.
Leaders Bournemouth welcome tenth team Bracknell to Chapel Gate this Saturday (2pm kick-off) having seen title challengers Ivybridge lose further ground on top spot following their 17-10 defeat at 12th team Drybrook.
Their fourth loss of the season pushed them and also second side Barnstaple 11 points behind Bournemouth and Croker said his team must not lose focus now.
He said: “The league threw up an unexpected result in many ways - with Ivybridge losing to Drybrook.
“But that is the nature of this league that on any day most teams can beat each other.
“What it does mean is we are now 11 points clear and the race is well and truly on.
“We have to be pragmatic - every game can throw up a new challenge and we have to be resourceful enough to meet them.
“There is a lot of rugby still to be played and we know its in our hands.”
When the two sides met for the first time this season back in September, Croker’s men returned from Berkshire with their third road win out of three - to continue their flawless start to the season.
But after reading second side Barnstaple also closed the gap on his side following their 32-17 win over Bracknell, Croker expects them to provide his team with a stern physical test this week.
He added: “We had one of our toughest games of the season when we visited them early in the season - narrowly winning 13-3 - as I remember in dreadful conditions and I am sure this week will be no less of a test.
“Kenny Dowding is an old school prop that has played a good level and the pack pride themselves on their physicality.
“George Cotterell is a talented young prop that will in time take over from Kenny and has a very bright future.
“They are a big club, with a huge youth and mini section and a real pedigree within rugby circles.”