Falmouth R.F.C. News

Another year and big changes in the training regime - Barry Trevaskis departed to possibly pastures greener, and a Player Coach has been appointed in Tim Gay - a good Clubman, who knows where the try line is! We would like to thank Barry for his commitment and professionalism during the past two years, and we would wish him success in the future. We hope that he will not be a stranger to the Club.

Elsewhere in the Club we have our first players who has come up through the ranks [Minis, Juniors and Colts] to play first team Rugby. Both Gareth Leaver - son of Andy and Kath – and Jacob Stephens – son of Jill and Paul – have made their first team debuts, while several other Colts have played for the “A” team. A very big thank you to Arthur Williams, who ran the Colts for several years, and spent lots of time chasing the lads to turn up on a regular basis. He will be a hard act to follow, but we wish Jeff Maddern all the best as he takes over as Colts’ coach.

Sunday mornings would not be the same without the Minis and Juniors - it is great to see the pitch full of such promising players and devoted coaches.

My grateful thanks to our most generous sponsors and the club committee. When I look around I am amazed that such a lot of work is done by so few people - they keep this Club moving forward and I am sure more volunteers would be most appreciated.

Of course you cannot have missed the action photos taken by our photographers - Colin Wellington and David Brenchley, of the Falmouth Packet. They turn out in all weathers and have supplied the press with some superb images. Our thanks to them.

Re the Move - yet another crunch Council Meeting in late September - hopefully this will speed the process up.

I have long harboured the wish to change the name of the 1st Team from the “Chiefs” to “The Falmouth Eagles” – the Killigrew Coat of Arms, It would give us a real identity. The team now have the base to really improve and I look forward to the coming Season with great anticipation.

Craig Hunter receives his trophy from coach Kim Conchie as
‘Coaches’ Player of the Season 2007-8 ‘ for Falmouth Rugby Club Under 13s.

‘Craig was a worthy winner of the Under 13 trophy. He improved immensely during the season and was a pleasure to coach because he is keen and committed and he puts into practice during matches what he has learnt on the training pitch’ enthused under 13 coach Kim Conchie. ‘He was a key player in what was a successful season. We reached the semi-final of the County Cup losing to a strong Penzance/Newlyn side. In other matches in Cornwall we lost only to Truro and Redruth. Our aim is to catch them next season and to keep ahead of the likes of Wadebridge and Bude who are breathing down our necks. We did get an end of season thumping from the touring Blackheath team which highlighted some of the areas we need to improve next season. I am going to do a lot of extra training work on our defensive play, particularly tackling and rucking. We tend to accept the role of underdogs too readily on occasions when I want the guys to step up to the plate. A bit more grit, like Craig demonstrates, will be required to be winners as under 14s ’ he continued.

Craig, a pupil at Falmouth School, said, ‘It’s great to get this award. I really enjoyed playing rugby for Falmouth. I broke my arm at school – not playing rugby - but as soon as that is fixed I will be getting fit for next season which I think’s going to be a lot of fun’.

Training for next season starts on Friday 8th August at 6.30pm at The Recreation Ground. All boys starting school year 9 in September are very welcome to try their hand whether they have played rugby before or not. Just turn up or contact Kim Conchie on 01326 214974 for more information.

Sunday March 16th - Falmouth vs Penzance/Newlyn Under 13's
Cornwall u13s Rugby Cup semi-final

Penzance/Newlyn u13s 32pts Falmouth u13s =0pts

Falmouth came up against a strong Pirates side on Sunday who scored tries at fairly regular intervals - three in each half - after periods of dogged defence by the visitors who were starved of possession for much of the game. In many ways this was the sort of tough match that the Falmouth boys would benefit from playing more often. It was a benchmark of Cornish u13 rugby and Falmouth fell only just short on this occasion. If the Falmouth tackling had held up against the Penzance star, Sam, (like Tarzan, nobody needs to know his other name such is the awe he inspires) and if there had been a greater vision in attack to use the spaces on the fringes of the big pitch the scoreline would have been narrower. As it was this was no disgrace against the best side in Cornwall and Falmouth will redouble efforts to run them closer next time.

For the visitors everybody played their part in stemming the relentless flow of Penzance attacks. With the limited possession Falmouth did secure the forwards battled bravely and there were threatening runs from Grant Burrows, Charlie Conchie and Jack Reed but no points for their efforts.

Squad: K Rodda, H Howarth, G Vincent, R Dunne, C Fuller, M Jones, G Burrows, C Conchie, O Stick, H Wilson, W James, T Cumins, H Spargo, M Tredget, C Sanders, C Hunter, J Parry, J Mailes

St. Ives u13s 0pts Falmouth u13s =38pts

Falmouth dispatched visitors St Ives by completely blocking them out in another fine display on Sunday.

Grant Burrows scored first converted by Kieran Rodda, next were 3 tries scored by Angus Mackinnon, 2 were converted by Kieran Rodda which brought the score to 26 nil. In the second half Grant scored a second try converted by Rodda and the last try was scored by Henry Howath but was not converted making the final scvore 38 - nil. Henry Howarth was man of the match.

Following this performance the Falmouth team can look forward with confidence to their cup semi-final at Penzance&Newlyn next Sunday. Kick off is 11am at Mennaye Field, Penzance. Every player will need to be at their best, their fittest and their most committed to overcome a Penzance team that has a strong reputation. But Falmouth must go and play from the starting whistle without being overawed. The reward would be a final against old rivals Redruth who will undoubtedly see off Camborne on Sunday.

Squad: K Rodda, H Howarth, G Vincent, R Dunne, C Fuller, M Jones, G Burrows, C Conchie, O Stick, H Wilson, W James, T Cumins, H Spargo, M Tredget, C Sanders, C Hunter, J Parry, J Mailes

It almost seems like an indication of the success of Falmouth's season at this age group that they have been drawn away at Penzance/Newlyn in the semi-final of the County Cup on 16th March and are preparing for victory.

All the boys have been asked to redouble their efforts to get fit and to be on top form for the big occasion. Intensive training has been scheduled for Friday and Sunday. A series of forwards and backs moves are being planned to complement the team's natural attacking flair. Their success so far has come from their ability to run at the opposition from all areas of the field and to tackle and ruck when in defence.

The squad will be selected after training on Sunday and fitness tests next week.

St. Austell u13s 0pts Falmouth u13s =50pts

Falmouth booked their berth in the semi-final of the County u13 Cup with a storming victory at St Austell on Sunday. As with recent performances, skills were demonstrated in both attack and defence by all players in the visiting side.

The hosts defended doggedly in the first half and kept the score to 29-0 but after the interval the possession and straight running of the Falmouth back row and three-quarters proved too much to handle.

Tries were scored by Man of the Match, George Vincent, Michael Jones, Jon Mailes (2), Grant Burrows (2), Jack Reed and Ruairi Dunne. Five of these wer converted by Kieran Rodda.

The semi-finals will take place on 16th March. The draw has not yet taken place so Falmouth don't know whether they will face Redruth, Camborne or Penzance & Newlyn.

Squad: K Rodda, H Howarth, G Vincent, R Dunne, C Fuller, M Jones, G Burrows, C Conchie, O Stick, H Wilson, W James, T Cumins, H Spargo, M Tredget, C Sanders, C Hunter, J Parry, J Mailes

Camborne u13s 0pts Falmouth u13s =78pts

In any sporting career there are going to be days you wish to forget; and this was one of those for the Camborne boys who were comprehensively outplayed in every department. Surprising though it may sound from the scoreline, Camborne never gave up and nearly snatched a late consolation try for their efforts.

The fact that they were denied was down to good cover defence by the home team's backs to add to the array of skills they displayed in the more frequent attacks. Each of the home team played their part in an exciting if one-sided affair. Captain Charlie Conchie and Grant Burrows both bagged hat-tricks, Jon Mailes notched an excellent pair and Mikey Jones, Joseph Parry, Craig Hunter and Kieran Rodda contributed one apiece. Rodda also converted nine of the touchdowns. Man of the Match Ruairi Dunne was another notable contributor both in attack and defence.

Tackling, passing and rucking by the home side improved as their confidence grew which are developments they will be hoping to take into more stretching games o the horizon.

Squad: K Rodda, H Howarth, G Vincent, R Dunne, C Fuller, M Jones, G Burrows, C Conchie, O Stick, H Wilson, W James, T Cumins, H Spargo, M Tredget, C Sanders, C Hunter, J Parry, J Mailes

Saturday February 9th- Falmouth vs Tavistock

Above: Man of the Match - Kyle Anderson.
1st Team against Tavistock on February 9th.

Redruth u13s 10pts Falmouth u13s 5pts

Redruth are one of the toughest outfits in the county so when they come calling their hosts had better be on top form. Falmouth almost matched them for intensity and effort on Sunday and could have snatched victory at the death. Conditions were terrible at The Recreation Ground but this did not prevent a great game of rugby being played by both sides. Redruth scored their two tries in the first half and did establish some dominance. But in the second period Falmouth stuck to their task and pulled one back from their excellent captain for the day, Jon Mailes. He and man of the match Criag Hunter made a good impression throughout the match. All the forwards played well complemented by some sharp moves and strong tackling from the backs. Next week Falmouth visit Bodmin who they bested at home before Christmas so will be hoping to regain their winning ways. Squad - as last week.

Wadebridge u13s 24pts Falmouth u13s 24pts

For the second consecutive Sunday Falmouth travelled north in search of spoils but were contained by a strong and committed herd of Camels who matched the visitors for ability and confidence.

Falmouth's captain for the day, Angus Mackinnon, won the toss and elected to play up the slope. Against the run of play, it was the home team which took the lead after five minutes of end to end rugby and Falmouth knew there was a serious game on. Grant Burrows scored a breakaway try converted by Kieran Rodda; and Jon Mailes went over after a forward effort to keep Falmouth in the hunt. Half time saw a narrow lead to Falmouth and expectations that, down the hill, the visitors could wrap another away victory. But, again, Wadebridge started the stronger and drew level. A tight half of good rugby from both sides resulted in just one further try apiece, Grant Burrows nabbing his second converted by George Leakey for the away team. At the death, Falmouth surged over the Wadebridge tryline and claimed a try but the referee ruled no touchdown.

This was a fantastic game of rugby played with endeavour and good spirit in all quarters. Several Falmouth players impressed: Caspar Fuller, George Vincent and Henry Howarth playing above themselves and running Mikey Jones close for man of the match honours.

The quarter-final round of the County Cup has taken place. Falmouth are drawn away to either St Austell or Launceston on 17th February and will have high hopes of progressing to a semi-final against either of these.

Squad: Caspar Fuller, George Leakey, George Vincent, Matthew Tredget, Mikey Jones (man of the match), Zac Maunder, Grant Burrows, Kieran Rodda, Oliver Stick, Angus Mackinnon (captain), Joseph Parry, Craig Hunter, Jon Mailes, Charlie Sanders, Toby Cumins, Harry Spargo, Hamish Wilson, Henry Howarth.

Bude u13s 19pts Falmouth u13s 29pts

Falmouth took the Atlantic Highway to play their opening County u13 Cup fixture at Bude and came away with a satisfying victory. The visiting forwards were particularly dominant in ruck and maul and put in a much-improved display in the lineout to secure the lion's share of possession which they converted into five well-worked tries. Jon Mailes making his debut for Falmouth scored the first after 8 minutes which was converted by Kieran Rodda. Bude drew level midway through the half with a fine individual effort before Angus Mackinnon restored Falmouth's lead just before half-time.

The half-time team talk urged the visitors to impose themselves straightaway and put some further points on the board within 5 minutes. Mikey Jones caught the ball from the kick off and sprinted 60 yards to oblige within 30 seconds. This score put some space between the teams. Thereafter Grant Burrows, reverting to his preferred position in the forwards, ran in 2 fine tries and Bude kept in the game by poaching 2 of their own against the run of play. The draw for the next round takes place in early February. Falmouth will be hoping to avoid Redruth and Truro - the two teams who have beaten them this season.

Squad: Kieran Rodda, Caspar Fuller, George Vincent, Grant Burrows Mikey Jones, Jack Reed (Captain and joint man of the match), Oliver Stick, Angus Mackinnon, Joseph Parry, Jon Mailes, Matthew Tredget, Charlie Sanders, Toby Cumins, Harry Spargo (joint man of the match), Hamish Wilson, Craig Hunter, Freddie Tomlinson, Zac Maunder.

Man of the Match - Adam Anderson

Below: Players selected to play for the Colts County Match
(L-R) Dan Pereira, Matt Stephenson and Sam Burke

Falmouth 48: Helston 0

This match had to be switched from a waterlogged Falmouth to a windswept Water-ma-Trout late on Saturday night. And for the first half hour Falmouth looked like they had not relished the change. Only staunch defence from the visitors prevented several waves of Helston attacks from scoring. Falmouth eventually found their rhythm and scored a try from the prolific Grant Burrows which Ruairi Dunne, returning after a long injury lay off, converted with the last kick of the half.

In the second half with the wind behind them, Falmouth looked a different team. Everything worked with some slick handling, clean rucking and great support play resulting in a further seven tries from Grant Burrows (2), Kieran Rodda, Michael Jones, Joseph Parry, Oliver Stick and, the move of the match putting Ruairi Dunne over in the corner. Conversions were shared between Rodda and Dunne; Rodda converting three times to complete a rousing if rather blowy encounter.Harry Spargo was Man of the Match for his commitment and drive carrying the ball deep into opposition territory.

Squad: T Cumins, W James, A Bullock, H Spargo, C Sanders, M Tredget, J Parry, C Hunter, G Burrows, F Tomlinson, C Conchie (captain), R Dunne, Z Maunder, K Rodda, O Stick, M Jones, C Fuller, J Reed

Falmouth 21 : St. Agnes 26

The windswept pitch of St Agnes with the sweeping vista of the Atlantic Ocean greeted Falmouth for this away fixture. Both teams had full squads to choose from and, with Falmouth winning the toss and electing to play with the wind, the scene was set for this keenly contested match. It took ten minutes before Falmouth’s full back Jake Head crossed the line to open the scoring after breaking through the solid defence of the home team.

Agnes replied soon after with a converted try of their own. Falmouth again went on the attack and, mainly thanks to some sterling support work by Alfie Hallum, Sam Tredget crossed the line to make the half time score 14 points to 7.

Both teams brought out the reserves in the second half, which was again a tale of two defences with all players making stunning tackles. Tom Tierney struggled through the home defence only to be denied the final touch down. He did manage to get on the score sheet eventually with a well worked try involving the whole back line, but this wasn’t enough on the day.

St Agnes managed a further two converted tries to run out eventual winners at 26 points to 21. Falmouth’s man of the match went to Alfie Hallum for his heroic tackling. Falmouth Team from: Ben Brittan-Long, Ashley Bullocke, Todd Carruthers, Ross Davis, Oliver Carlyle, Alfie Hallum, Charlie Hatcher, Jake Head(1), David Heron, James Opie, Sean Pryor, Drew Richards(captain), Christian Sheer, Tom Tierney(1), Sam Tredget(1) and Zian Mackey.

Saturday 24th November - 1st XV Home

Falmouth 14 : Okehampton 13

[Falmouth team: A. Palmer, T. Gay, R. Warwicker, S. Instance, C. McColl, T. Somers, E. Lawrence, A. Lawton, J. Brown, J. Instance, S. Kent, R. Hambly, M. Slater, D. Pellow, J. Greville-Smith. Replacements: L. Hatton, H. Somers, C. Pollard.]

This was an important win for Falmouth in this match, sponsored by The Shed Restaurant, as it got the team back on track after the disappointment of the previous weekend at Wessex and allowed it pushed one more rung up the league table to fourth place, equal on points with Tavistock.

In poor conditions of a strong diagonal wind and almost incessant rain this was always going to be a hard battle against a very capable Okehampton side, who were looking for the victory which would allow them to leapfrog over Falmouth and into the top four. As things turned out, the game could have gone either way, but Falmouth held out at the very end to secure a significant victory. The rugby was never pretty as both packs worked hard in the close contact areas for ascendancy and the obvious choice of the side playing with the wind was to kick for position at every opportunity - almost the pattern of the World Cup!

Falmouth had first use of the wind but took a while to settle as Okehampton kept possession of the greasy ball and ploughed their way upfield towards the home try-line. No quarter was asked for or given as the defensive wall stood firm and eventually Falmouth eased the pressure with a long penalty to the left corner, from which Ashley Lawton forced his way over for a well-worked forwards' score. Falmouth were now competing well with storming runs off the sides of their pack by Tim Gay and Tom Somers which Okehampton did well to hold until they too worked an attacking position for a lineout. Their forwards controlled it well and sucked the defenders in before releasing the ball to their threequarters, who charged at the posts. The attack was held up but hooker, Bret Griffiths, was at hand to snap up the loose ball and cross for an unconverted try near the posts. As things would turn out, this was to prove to be an expensive missed kick for Okehampton. With all square at 5-5 Falmouth took control of the rest of the half and pressurised the Okehampton line with the outsides handling well to send Ashley Lawton on two galloping runs up the middle to set up good attacking opportunities. The visitors were forced to infringe and the trusty boot of James Instance made them pay when he slotted over two well-judged penalty goals to make the score 11-5 at the half time whistle.

From now on Okehampton had to catch up quickly as the sought to use the elements to establish territorial advantage. However, Falmouth denied them the ball early on and worked their way to the visitors 22 metre line where once again the pressure resulted in another penalty goal for Falmouth after 55 minutes and James Instance converted to open the gap further to 14-5. With 25 minutes remaining, Okehampton came straight back into the game when left wing, Lee Carey, kicked a penalty goal, after he had made a determined run up the middle to set up the position, and then 8 minutes later he dived over in the corner for a clever try after good control work at a scrum by number 8, Steve Alford. At 14-13 Okehampton sensed that they had time to win as they marauded well to take advantage of every Falmouth mistake, but the home defence was resolute in the closing minutes with hard tackles knocking the attacks back and disrupting the fluency of the Okehampton play. Crucial to this aspect of the Falmouth game was the excellent lineout work of Chris McColl , who stole several important balls to keep Falmouth on the front foot, even when they were under attack. Okehampton were hammering on the Falmouth line when the final whistle came, but the home team held out to keep their promotion ambitions alive in this very competitive league.

Next Saturday, Falmouth are away to Teignmouth and the "A" team are at home to Camborne 3rds, kicking off at 2:30pm.

Falmouth 40 : St.Ives 14

Following last weeks drubbing by local rivals Penryn, Falmouth Under 11’s were hoping that their fortunes would change for this fixture with St Ives on the rain-soaked Recreation Ground. The prospects for a fast free flowing game of rugby, however, looked unlikely following the previous night of torrential rain. The visitors only managed to raise 10 players so Falmouths reserves took to cheering their team on from the sidelines.

St Ives won the toss and elected to play up the slope. Within minutes of the kick off, it looked as though the home team’s prayers had been answered as Sam Tredget crossed the line for the first score of the match. Falmouth were a different team from last week with plenty of rolling mauls which Oliver George was usually the driving force behind. Falmouth were soon on the score sheet again from a blistering run by David Heron from the Falmouth 10 metre line. St Ives replied soon after with a converted try of their own but despite this were overpowered again by the awesome power of the Falmouth back line enabling Sam to bag his second with Jake Head also putting his mark on the score sheet with a darting run through the visitors defence.

Falmouth went into the break with a 21 point advantage and came out again with all the reserves on the field hoping to carry on where they had left off the first half. Some great lineout work by Alfie Hallum and Christian Sheer enabled Tom Tierney to cross the line for the home team. Despite some brave tackling from Todd Caruthers and Ben Brittan-Long the visitors managed to score again. The scrums were evenly matched but with some quick work by Ross Davis from the base of the scrum, the ball was spun wide to enable Sam to secure his hat trick and end the match with a win for the home team at 40 points to 14. Man of the match went to David Heron for his heroic tackling.

Falmouth Team From: Ben Brittan-Long, Ashley Bullocke, Oliver Carlyle (captain), Todd Carruthers, Ross Davis, Oliver George, Alfie Hallum, Charlie Hatcher, Jake Head(1), David Heron(1), James Opie, Drew Richards, Christian Sheer, Tom Tierney(1) and Sam Tredget(3)

Sunday 18th November - Under 13s Away

FALMOUTH 24: ST IVES 10

St Ives have reconstituted a team at this age group and produced a plucky performance to hold Famouth to a four tries to two victory. The visitors looked the stronger throughout but the hosts never made it easy as they tackled well and attacked whenever the opportunity arose.

Falmouth's man of the match Will James made a number of great carries into the heart of St Ives' defence; and, with Grant Burrows in great finishing form scoring all four tries, it was a gutsy performance by the visitors in poor conditions for expansive rugby. Rodda converted twice.

Squad: Bamford, Burrows, Bullock, Collins, Fuller, Hamilton, Jermyn, Leakey, Reed, Rodda, Sanders, Spargo, Stephens, Stick, Tomlinson, Tredget, Vincent, James, Maunder, Jones

FALMOUTH 5 : REDRUTH 29

Falmouth's six match winning streak was brought to an end at Redruth on Sunday with a bump. Falmouth gave their hosts too much respect in the first half and conceded four tries without reply. Normal standards of tackling by the usually committed Falmouth boys were lowered which enabled Redruth to make the most of their possession which came in droves, primarily from lineouts where Falmouth were poor. The set scrum held up well with the visitors taking one against the head and, behind the scrum, there were committed performances from Conchie, Stick and Jones.

In the second half Falmouth used their limited possession better, eventually Conchie tapping a quick penalty to Burrows who ran in one of his trademark long-distance tries to give Falmouth some consolation and avoid "being nilled". Rodda missed the conversion. Squad: Spargo, Bullock, Cumins, Tredget, Sanders, Burrows, Mackinnon, Parry, Conchie (capt), Rodda, Stick, Jones, Leakey, Maunder, Tomlinson, Collins

FALMOUTH 14 : CULLOMPTON 14

[Falmouth Team: A. Palmer, C. Pollard, T. Somers, S. Instance, H. Somers, C. McColl, E. Lawrence, J. Doney, J. Brown, J. Instance, J. Greville-Smith, R. Hambly, M. Slater, D. Pellow, S. Kent. Replacements: L. Hatton, T. Gay, A. Knight.]

This was another exciting top-of-the-table match where both sides realised the importance of the result in the chase to catch Newquay at the top of the league, but in the end a tight draw was the outcome and the relate positions in the table remained unchanged. Falmouth will be unhappy about not killing off the game in the first half when they were in almost complete command, but Cullompton will be encouraged by their fight back from 14-0 down and will be thinking that they could have won it in the end. The question in the minds of both sets of supporters must be whether Falmouth went off the boil in the second half or did Cullompton eventually awake, too late, from their haphazard start?

For the first fifteen minutes Falmouth tore into the opposition with such pace and aggression that an early score seemed bound to come, but Cullompton refused to yield and kept the home side out until the seventeenth minute. At that point Falmouth stole the ball in the lineout near the visitors' line and the ubiquitous Ed Lawrence was at hand to collect and force his way over near the posts. James Instance converted from in front and Falmouth appeared to be on their way and very good value for their stirring approach. With the threequarters handling well at this stage and spreading the ball wide to pressurise the Cullompton defence, it was only another five minutes before the score was doubled. The Falmouth forwards did their stuff very methodically in an attacking lineout and centre Richard Hambly made the decisive break before handing on to Michael Slater to finish off an excellent move. James Instance once again added the extras and Falmouth seemed to be running away with the game before Cullompton had had a chance to launch a meaningful attack. However, that proved to be the end of the Falmouth scoring as the visitors, to their great credit, regrouped and from then on started to work their way back into this exciting match. While the lineouts and loose play situations were equally shared, Falmouth had the ability to upset the Cullompton scrum and this provided the spectators with a good open game of rugby as possession changed hands with unusual regularity. Cullompton eventually hit back with a penalty goal by flyhalf Alex Brookes, but there seemed to be no cause for alarm as Falmouth continued to press for the next points which would surely secure them the game. However this was not to be and in the final minutes of the half, Falmouth failed to support quickly enough and were penalised for holding on. Alex Brookes slotted over the penalty goal and the half closed at 14-6.

Young Andy Knight came on at prop for Falmouth to make his senior debut and Tim Gay took over the hooking as both teams continued to play at full pace. Cullompton were the more composed on the ball and took the game to Falmouth, who started to make basic mistakes which cost them possession and often territory. This was a ding-dong battle and Falmouth were reduced to fourteen men when frustration set in and Justin Doney was sin-binned. Cullompton strove to make the most of their extra man and after 66 minutes they switched the ball across the field three times to allow flanker Adam Gingell to touch down wide out on the left to close the score to 14-11. There was still time for the game to be won by either side and both had their chances. Cullompton lost replacement centre Dickie McCabe to the sinbin as the end approached, but Alex Brookes had the last say when he took his time from 40 metres out to convert the sweetest of drop goals to tie the scores at 14-14. Both teams must have felt disappointed at not winning such a good game, but a draw was a fair result in the end.

Next Saturday Falmouth travel to Honiton in the hope that the referee will turn up!

Falmouth Under 13s 45pts
Launceston Under 13s 0pts

Sunday saw Falmouth's best performance of the season to put paid to visiting Launceston by seven tries to nil. The home team's coaches were afterwards expressing satisfaction with several aspects of their team's play and were particularly pleased with the nil point victory as Falmouth's defence held out right to the end despite some strong forays by Launceston into their 22 metre area and in one case right to the tryline before before the attacker was hauled down by Spargo and Tomlinson who both had storming games. There were personal best performances from Bullock, Stephens and Maunder with most others playing up to their usual high standards.

The interplay between backs and forwards demonstrated that every Falmouth player understands his role and is keen to link with those around him. For a wet and windy morning handling and ball retention were strong denying Launceston any possession, surely and comprehensively squeezing them out of the game.

Burrows scored another hat-trick, Jones a brace and Rodda and Tomlinson ran well for their tries. Kicking duties were shared among Rodda, Tomlinson and Leakey to convert five of the seven tries.

Squad: Bamford, Bullock, Burrows, Conchie (capt), Cumins, Hamilton, Jermyn, Leakey, Parry, Reed, Rodda, Spargo, Stephens, Stick, Tomlinson, Tredget, Jones, Maunder.

Falmouth travelled to Exeter last Saturday with a strong side to play their league match against Wessex, but came back disappointed and annoyed as the exchange referee from Leeds failed to arrive and the game was postponed. The circumstances of this unusual event are now being investigated but it seems most likely that the team will have to travel again at the first available vacant date to play the fixture.

Meanwhile at the Recreation Ground the "A" team were playing Helston 2nds in a Merit Table game, which ended all square at 8-8. In slippery playing conditions, which both sides found difficult to handle, the Helston pack dominated possession and territory for threequarters of the game but could have lost it in the end as they tired and the lively Falmouth outsides got their hands on the ball and pressed hard for an unlikely victory. From the start Falmouth were under the cosh but defended well as Helston attempted to turn attacking positions into points. However, in this stop-start match which lacked any prolonged continuity, the only score of the half was a late try for the visitors by Stu Jackson who forced his way over from a scrum.

In the second half Helston went further ahead with a Rob Trembath penalty goal before Tom Spiller reduced the lead with a similar score for Falmouth, who were now much more in the game. Falmouth drove forward and after a heel against the head, Leigh Head, at number 8, made the break to send centre Tim Hill in for an unconverted try. At 8-8 Falmouth looked for another score but despite a good break by Tom Borsay and a penalty chance the scoreboard remained the same at the final whistle.

Next Saturday Falmouth "Chiefs" entertain Cullompton with the kickoff at 2:30pm, while the "A" team are also playing at home against Illogan Park. It is likely that the "A" team match will be played before that of the "Chiefs", probably starting at 12:30pm..

Falmouth u13s 35pts
Bodmin u13s 7pts

Falmouth swept aside their visitors to Tregenver Field on Sunday by five converted tries to one. There was a big crowd to watch an entertaining game in which forwards and backs both played their part. In the opening exchanges Bodmin held their own with some fierce tackling to keep the hosts at bay but eventually this defence was broken by Man of the Match Grant Burrows scoring the first of his hat-trick - which is becoming a pleasing habit . Seven minutes later Oliver Stick went over for a fine try after a dashing and weaving run. The scoring before half time was completed by a fine run in by newcomer Mike Jones making his debut on the wing.

The same pattern of Falmouth dominance continued after the break with Grant Burrows scoring the remaining two thirds of his clutch. The home team eased off in the last few minutes and allowed Bodmin a consolation try. It was pleasing to see some excellent place kicking as all six tries were converted and some more thoughtful kiccking from the hand. Falmouth's kicking duties were shared between Kieran Rodda, Freddie Tomlinson and George Leakey.

Squad: as before plus Mike Jones. Jordan Jermyn

FALMOUTH 21 : TRURO 12

[Falmouth Team: R. Warwicker, T. Gay, A. Palmer, S. Instance, H. Somers, T. Somers, E. Lawrence, J. Doney, J. Brown, J. Instance, J. Greville-Smith, R. Hambly, M. Slater, D. Pellow, S. Kent. Replacements: C. McColl, C. Pollard, L. Hatton]

Truro arrived at the Recreation Ground with an unbeaten record in the league to confront a Falmouth team which had suffered two recent narrow defeats. Falmouth needed to secure some much-needed league points to keep them in touch with the pace-setters at the top of the table, while Truro were very keen not to lose momentum in their search for top spot and the chance to overhaul the leaders, Cullompton. The outcome was a tense, competitive but flowing game of rugby, which was enjoyed by everyone, including the referee, David May, who described it as the best rugby that he has supervised this season. Eventually, Falmouth ran out very worthy winners based on their ability to weather the early storm that Truro created in the set pieces and the superior fitness of their squad which finished off the opposition very clinically in the final quarter with two tries of the highest quality. This was a match to remember!

Truro kicked off into a stiff breeze to exert pressure on the home side, but the Falmouth team were composed and patient as they kept possession and refused to clear the ball downfield. In these opening phases Truro scrummaged strongly and their captain, Marco Danielli, was proving a real handful in the lineout and in open play where his forceful running had to be closed down quickly by the Falmouth defence. The first scores came in quick succession after eight and ten minutes, when both teams were caught offside and flyhalf, Scott Martin, converted the penalty for Truro and James Instance, soon after, replied for Falmouth to maintain parity at 3-3. Play was vigorous as both teams were kicking for position and then attempting to run the ball for the first elusive try. Truro were out-scrummaging Falmouth at this point and the home side, denied possession when in good attacking positions, were forced to infringe and a number of penalties were awarded against them as Truro seemed to be seizing the initiative. Harry Somers was sin-binned for a technical offence and Falmouth now had to defend in numbers, with the back row of Tom Somers, Ed Lawrence and Justin Doney leading the way. A strong run by Justin Doney relieved the siege and set up a position in Truro's half, from which James Instance kicked his second goal after 38 minutes when Truro were offside at a ruck. Both teams were now playing expansive rugby but there seemed little time left as play flashed from end to end until Scott Martin chipped over a neat drop goal for Truro and Falmouth responded straight from the kick-off with another James Instance penalty when prop, Chiz Gilbert, was sin-binned for blatant obstruction. The half ended with all to play for at 9-6 in the home side's favour.

At the start of the second session Falmouth brought on Chris McColl and Liam Hatton for Richard Warwicker and Steve Kent and the game continued at great pace. The home side were running and handling with confidence at every opportunity with halfbacks Jack Brown and James Instance proving an efficient link between the threequarters and the pack, which slowly but surely began to dominate in the set pieces and the loose. Truro missed a penalty goal before Falmouth's man-of-the-match, Ed Lawrence, who had an outstanding game in both attack and defence, secured the ball in broken play and released his outsides. The ball was moved quickly to the right before James Greville-Smith produced a speculative kick ahead which bounced kindly for winger Darren Pellow to gather at full pelt and cross for a try which was converted by James Instance. At 16-6 the gap had opened and Falmouth were clearly dominant, but Truro came back into the game with two penalty goals by Scott Martin to reduce the arrears to four points and set up a thrilling final eight minutes. On this occasion Falmouth were not to be denied and excellent team work involving a thirty metre drive by the forwards was cleverly finished off by the outsides who handled superbly under pressure to send skipper Michael Slater on a weaving run to the tryline to make the final score 21-12.

Hopefully Falmouth will be able to maintain this standard next Saturday when the team travels to Wessex for a game which could consolidate the club's position in the top four in the table. The "A" team are at home to Helston 2nds in the Cornwall Merit Table, Kicking off at 3:00pm.

St Austell u13s 12pts
Falmouth u13s 33pts

Falmouth travelled to St Austell with only fourteen boys (due to various other commitments) on Sunday and returned victorious after a strong all round team performance. Several of the new and less experienced members of the team had their best match to date. Man of the Match Zac Maunder personified this battling spirit with his feisty runs and close man marking. St Austell took the lead against the run of play with a long distance run from their own half but Falmouth were not fazed by this upset and fought back up the slope to score two tries before half time. First Matthew Tredget touched down after some sterling work by the forwards and then the try-scoring machine Grant Burrows ran one in with a long lope up the hill. After half time Falmouth turned round confident that they could continue the good work with the benefit of the incline. Grant soon scored again followed by Oliver Stick and Angus Mackinnon all of which came as the result of good linking work between backs and forwards which pleased their coaches. Four of the visitors' five tries were excellently converted by Kieran Rodda.

Team: Zac Maunder, Caspar Fuller, Craig Hunter, Oliver Stick, Kieran Rodda, Charlie Conchie (captain), Harry Spargo, Kieran Collins, Toby Cumins, Matthew Tredget, Charlie Sanders, Joseph Parry, Grant Burrows, Angus Mackinnon

Falmouth u13s 24pts Newquay u13s 12

Falmouth continued their encouraging start to the season with a comfortable four tries to two victory over their visitors from the north coast on Sunday. Falmouth again displayed some good work in attack with Grant Burrows, Jack Reed and Joseph Parry maklng impressive runs from deep and with some effective rucking from their forwards. In defence, tackling was usually strong with man of the match George Leakey pulling off a magnificent try-saving effort in the corner to deny Newquay a late consolation score.

The match was perhaps not the spectacle it might have been due to both teams' desire to maul too often. The outcomes of the mauls was anybody's guess and they only succeeded in sapping energy from both sides which could have been used to better effect in running and open play.

Grant Burrows was again the great finisher running in another hat-trick of tries. At half time Falmouth were only ahead by Kieran Rodda's conversion of Grant's first try. After the break, Grant scored straight from the kick off which was converted by Kyle Hamilton. As Falmouth made their superiority felt Grant ran in his third before Joseph Parry completed a sound morning's work with a try in the corner.

Squad same as before.

Falmouth u13s 39pts Camborne u13s 14

Falmouth entertained Camborne at The Recreation Ground on Sunday and demonstrated the greater ability to use the wide pitch. This was the under 13s first game on a full size pitch so there were gaps round the edges which Falmouth better exploited. The first score however was a try under the posts for the visitors after some very slack defensive work from Falmouth. Thereafter Falmouth took control. Matthew Tredget wrested the ball from a maul and sprinted 40 metres to score in the corner. A similar long range effort from Grant Burrows proved to be the first of three for Falmouth's hat-trick hero. The home team's forwards rucked better giving them more possession and every time the ball they'd won was swung out to the wings they looked dangerous.

As Falmouth's confidence grew so attacking options were explored, opposition initiatives shut down and, ultimately, tries scored. Oliver Stick and Jack Reed on opposite wings both received the ball in their own half and ran round their opposite numbers before straightening to score. George Vincent scored an excellent opportunist try when pouncing on a Camborne handling error and George Leakey converted twice. Falmuth relaxed and allowed Camborne a late soft converted try to give the scoreboard an aura of respectability but the game was a happy occasion for the opening home match of the season at Falmouth. The home team missed Ruairi Dunne who broke his wrist in the game against Helston last week.

FALMOUTH 29 : BIDEFORD 8

[Falmouth Team: T. Somers, T. Gay, A. Palmer, S. Instance, H. Somers, C. McColl, E. Lawrence, J. Doney, T. Spiller, J. Instance, S. Kent, R. Hambly, M. Slater, D. Pellow, J. Greville-Smith. Replacements: R. Warwicker, J. Brown, J. Nienaber]

Falmouth continued their excellent start to the league season with an emphatic victory over a strong Bideford side, who admitted that they travelled to Falmouth in the expectation of improving on their narrow loss at the Recreation Ground in the EDF Senior Vase match on September 1st. In the event they encountered a Falmouth team which combined well in all aspects of play and it was only stubborn defence and over elaborate play by Falmouth which prevented a much heavier defeat for the visitors. Falmouth's pack was superior throughout the game - solid and imaginative at the set pieces while capable of rampaging in the loose - and the threequarters handled well at speed as they constantly hassled the Bideford line. Bideford must be congratulated on their willingness to defend throughout the game and to counterattack when the few opportunities arose. This was a fast and exciting game which was handled well by referee Mike Weaver, who was making his first visit to Falmouth.

From the kick-off Bideford exerted early pressure and forced Falmouth on to the defencive, but this was short-lived as the home side broke out with a sweeping handling movement lead by Tim Gay and Darren Pellow which was just halted short of the visitors' line. However, it set up the position from which Falmouth pressurised their opponents into mistakes and set up an early advantage. James Instance kicked a penalty awarded for holding on in the ruck and then the Falmouth forwards drove from a lineout for Ed Lawrence to touch down an unconverted try. After eleven minutes Falmouth were 8-0 up and from then on the home team were rarely threatened such was their control of the game. Bideford's forwards were never really secure enough on their own ball and the whole side looked disjointed as Falmouth launched attack after attack. Falmouth's wingers, Steve Kent and Darren Pellow, were kept busy as play moved from side to side after every recycled ball and there were frantic periods of play as forwards and backs exchanged passes in an attempt to find the next try. This would have come but for simple handling mistakes and the desire to make contact rather than exploit the open spaces and consequently Bideford held on in the face of sustained pressure. There only other scores of the half were an interchange of penalty goals by the respective number 10s, Oliver Wickett and James Instance, which gave Falmouth an interval lead of 14-3.

The second half followed the same pattern as Falmouth spread the ball wide with fast and furious broken play involving forwards and backs. Ed Lawrence found his way to the try line once again after fifty two minutes and at 19-3 Falmouth were now in command and looking to pull well clear. With a little more emphasis on timing of passes more tries would have come, but against the run of play Bideford showed that they were still awake when they caught Falmouth napping with a quick tapped penalty and replacement Ben Parry ran in an unconverted try. However, Falmouth were not to be denied in the final quarter as good handling and driving by Justin Doney and Chris McColl set up a try in the corner for Tim Gay and then a flowing threequarter movement from a scrum allowed Mike Slater and Richard Hambly to combine well and send winger Johan Nienaber in for a try on the left to make it 29-8.

Falmouth will hope to build on this excellent performance next Saturday when they entertain Newquay Hornets at 3:00pm at the Recreation Ground. Falmouth "A" travel away to Bodmin 2nds.

Truro u13s 17pts Falmouth u13s 12

Helston u13s 0 Falmouth u13s 22

Falmouth u13s kicked off their first season of 15 a side rugby with a three- way tournament at Truro on Sunday morning narrowly losing to Truro before beating Helston in some style. This format is ideal to give all squad members a good run out so early in the season and allows the coaches to test newly-recruited players in a variety of positions.

The game against Truro was a real ding-dong affair and could have gone either way. The defensive tackling by both sides was excellent and a high level of momentum and commitment was maintained throughout. For Falmouth, Grant Burrows scored a long range run in and Charlie Conchie scored a second half charge down which Kieran Rodda converted.

In the second match, a much improved Helston started strongly and threatened to score a break out try but eventually the Falmouth team got themselves organised and some fine tries were created for Grant Burrows(2), Kyle Hamilton, playing his first game, and the ever reliable Freddie Tomlinson. Kieran Rodda completed a most enjoyable morning's rugby by converting the final try.

Squad: Grant Burrows, Charlie Conchie, Freddie Tomlinson, Kieran Rodda, Kyle Hamilton, Zac Maunder, Kieran Collins, Louis Bamford, Toby Cumins (capt), Caspar Fuller, Will James, George Leakey, Joseph Parry, Jack Reed, Charlie Sanders, Harry Spargo, Jack Stephens, Matt Tredget, George Vincent

FALMOUTH 13 : WELLINGTON 0

[Falmouth Team: T. Somers, C. Pollard, A. Palmer, S. Instance, H. Somers, C. McColl, J. Doney, A. Lawton, T. Spiller, M. Biggins, J. Greville-Smith, R. Hambly, M. Slater [Capt], D. Pellow, J. Instance. Replacements: T. Gay, T. Honey, S. Kent]

Over the last couple of seasons, the matches between Falmouth and Wellington have produced close, competitive, ding-dong encounters and this one turned out to be no different. Both sides attempted to play open, attacking rugby throughout, but their defences proved hard to break as almost every attack was met with stout resistance. However, on the balance of play, Falmouth came away with a deserved first league victory against opponents which will be challenging for league honours once again this year.

From the start Falmouth attacked at a frantic pace and Wellington were forced to defend in their own half. For six minutes they held out well until they underestimated the value of a mazy run by scrumhalf, Tom Spiller, who did well to weave his way up the touchline before delivering a scoring pass to winger Darren Pellow who came up on the inside. Falmouth continued to harry and cause concern in the Wellington ranks, especially when Ashley Lawton and his two flankers were breaking the gainline from the base of the scrums. To their credit, the visitors were not going to be caught napping twice and they responded with several flowing three-quarter moves as they turned defence into attack. Flyhalf Ryan Garland dummied and opened up a gap before sending away right wing, Mickey Norman, on a clear run to the Falmouth line where he was just cut off by the covering defenders. From now on Wellington were establishing territorial advantage and the Falmouth outsides had to attack from distance, but despite the cut and thrust of this highly competitive game there were no further scores and half time arrived with Falmouth just one score in front.

Both sets of supporters realised that the next score could be crucial in deciding the outcome of the game, so things were tense on the touchlines as both sides failed to convert very kickable penalty goals. Wellington had started the more aggressively and pinned Falmouth back until the sixtieth minute when the home team managed to break out with a long clearance kick by Matt Biggins. Falmouth now pressurised the Wellington line from both scrums and lineouts and eventually James Instance slotted over an important penalty goal when Wellington strayed offside. With Falmouth 8-0 up Wellington had to attack through their outsides and Mickey Norman was once again cut off close to the home line as the defence was stretched but refused to yield. With Falmouth now controlling the lineouts through Steve Instance and Harry Somers, it seemed that more scores would come, but the stubborn defence of the visitors prevented the home side from making the most of their territorial advantage. Eventually, with time running out, Falmouth launched a sweeping three-quarter movement to the left and replacement winger, Steve Kent, cut back inside to feed Ashley Lawton on the burst. With the Wellington defence now breached, the ball was recycled and Falmouth, with a massive overlap on the left, eventually gave Justin Doney the easiest of debut tries.

On Saturday Falmouth "Chiefs" travel to Crediton while the "A" team are at home to St Agnes in a friendly fixture.

FALMOUTH 30 : BIDEFORD 20

[Falmouth Team: A. Palmer, C. Pollard, T. Somers, S. Instance, H. Somers, C. McColl, E. Lawrence, A. Lawton, T. Spiller, M. Biggins, J. Greville-Smith, R. Hambly, M. Slater [Capt], D. Pellow, J. Instance. Replacements: T. Gay, P. Wellington, R. Warwicker.]

In perfect playing conditions, Falmouth and Bideford entertained the supporters to an enjoyable opening match of the new season with the outcome being far from clear until the last quarter of the game. Both sides were slightly understrenght and needed to experiment with positions, but the deciding factor in the end was Falmouth's greater endurance in sustaining the pace while Bideford eventually folded under the pressure imposed by the home team. Bideford's forwards looked very solid in the set pieces from the outset, but Falmouth's new-look pack outclassed them in the lineout and eventually disrupted their scrummage to such an extent that the visiting outsides had to live off sparse possession. The new back row of Chris McColl, Ed Lawrence and Ashley Lawton were alert to all situations in attack and defence and performed well in broken play, while locks Harry Somers and Steve Instance controlled the lineout, often stealing the opposition ball. However, mistakes interrupted the continuity of play and this allowed Bideford to stay in contention for most of the match.

Falmouth started with a flourish and tore into the Bideford half to establish good positions from which to launch their backs, but the defence was sound until they were offside at a ruck and James Instance slotted the penalty for a 3-0 lead after ten minutes. Falmouth pressure continued from the restart and forwards and backs combined well in broken play to set up an attacking lineout near the visitors' line. Harry Somers won the throw and from the resulting forward drive Ed Lawrence darted over in the left hand corner for an unconverted try. Falmouth now seemed to be well in control, but Bideford regrouped and kept the ball tight for a while as they sought to force Falmouth back. During this period the Falmouth outsides were denied the ball as the opposing packs took each other on, but a spark of elusive running by Bideford centre, Kuda Mushava, created an important opening for flanker Matt Dennis to charge over for a well-worked try. Flyhalf Jamie Morris converted and Bideford were back in touch at 8-7. With the game now into its second quarter both teams had their opportunities to attack as sloppy handling presented the ball to the opposition with play moving up and down the pitch. Jamie Morris struck first for Bideford with a penalty goal after a high tackle, but Falmouth counterattacked immediately to set up a scrum near the Bideford line and good combination work between Ashley Lawton and Ed Lawrence allowed Steve Instance a simple pick-up before diving over for the try. James Instance converted and Falmouth were now looking good value with a five point lead at 15-10. However, Bideford were to have the last say of the half as they exerted pressure on the Falmouth scrum to force a mistake and flanker Richard Norman gathered to cross near the post. Jamie Morris converted and Bideford were ahead at half time 15-17.

The second half was going to be close as each side played for position and tried to minimise their mistakes. After an early exchange of penalty goals between James Instance and Jamie Morris which kept Bideford ahead at 18-20, the play ebbed and flowed between the two 22 metre lines until Falmouth snatched the initiative and pulled away in the sixtieth minute. From over 25 metres out the Falmouth pack caught and drove the Bideford forwards to their goal-line for another try by Ed Lawrence. This gave Falmouth a three point lead and Bideford were unable to respond as they wilted under the incessant pressure of the home team which was now keeping possession and playing all the rugby in the visitors' half. Just before the final whistle they charged down an attempted clearance kick by the Bideford flyhalf and poured through the gaps for Richard Hambly to score. James Instance converted and Falmouth had won this EDF Senior Vase match by 30-20.