WIVELISCOMBE rugby coach Peter Stone is considering stepping down after jointly running the side for the past six seasons.

Wiveliscombe avoided relegation in Western Counties West following promotion during the past season – but it was a mighty close thing.

They finished third from bottom with a revised points tally of 39.30, compared to 39.00 for Saltash who are relegated along with Cullompton (34.27).

“Obviously, I’m happy that we avoided the relegation but I’ve been disappointed by the lack of commitment by some of the players,” said Stone, 55, who made 500 appearances for Wiveliscombe as a centre. “We also failed to target games last season. There were games we should have won.”

Stone ran the side last season with former players Brian Stone and Rob Weaver and admits he has not talked to them about next season. “We certainly need to strengthen the side with two or three quality players,” he added. “And I want to see more commitment from some players. There are no easy games in Western Counties, particularly when you play in Cornwall.”

Wellington’s promotion to South West One (West) means they will play their local rivals only once next season – on Boxing Day.

Bottom four: Honiton 42.03; Wiveliscombe 39.30; Saltash 39.00; Cullompton 34.27.