IN a match filled with hope, suspense, and tradition, the Falmouth Eagles clashed with the Penryn Borough at the Recreation Ground for their first home and league game of 2024, writes Danny Trick.
The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as it had only been 11 days since the two teams drew in a hard-fought Boxing Day clash at the Memorial Ground.
The Eagles were determined to make their mark, and with the inclusion of key players Hugo Polglase, Jowan Peck, and Alfie Hammersly, along with the return of Harvey Penhallurick from injury, there was hope that the lads who were still home for Christmas would bolster the Eagles 1XV. Rowan O' Regan came in as lock forward, Gideon Blacklock on the open side flank, and Harry Walsh-Newton trusted as the fly half.
On the other hand, Penryn arrived with a point to prove, having suffered a recent loss away to Bude and yet to record a win on the road. The Eagles, still searching for their winning form, were eager to move away from the foot of the table.
The large crowds were treated to a battle between two local teams. The atmosphere was heightened by the presence of the Falmouth Marine Band, led by new drum major Timmy Vinnicombe, forming a guard of honor as Ashley Searle led the Eagles out for his 400th appearance. A minute's applause and drumming were also held in respect of John Sewell.
From the start, the intensity was palpable. The lads showcased their new VR boxing skills in the ‘matter-do-we-verse’ with the referee Danny Robins opting to let play flow as much as possible. Both teams tried to gain the advantage, resulting in a cagey affair in the middle of the pitch.
The battle between the opposing 12s intensifying, with James Salisbury eventually being awarded a penalty, which he slotted in front of the posts. 0-3.
The real breakthrough followed when Borough winger Kai Sale capitalized on a wayward kick and displayed great speed to score out wide. The conversion was missed, 0-8.
The first half continued with a period of stalemate until Penryn found a mismatch on the wing, allowing Matt Hall to race in and set up Salisbury for the conversion. The score at halftime was 0-15 in favour of Penryn.
Early in the second half, Matt Hall secured his brace, but the conversion was unsuccessful. The score now stood at 0-20, and the atmosphere in the home crowd fell silent. Penryn seemed to seal the game when Andrew Seviour darted in for a try under the posts, with Salisbury adding the extras, making it 0-27.
However, the Eagles showed resilience and determination. Led by stalwart Cavey, they launched a relentless assault on the Borough's line. After a series of infringements and warnings, Salisbury was shown a yellow card, taking one for his team.
With the youthful back division of Polglase, Hammersley, and Penhallurick finding space to play, Harry Walsh-Newton executed a simple switch move to score a try, reaching out to dot it down on the line. Penhallurick converted, bringing the score to 7-27.
The crowd, fueled by enthusiasm, cheered the quick thinking of Seb Firth, who was later awarded the man of the match. Firth took a quick tap penalty, feeding Phil Hinchley, who powered in from 10 meters. The final score was 12-27.
Despite the disappointment for the home fans, this revered derby between two of Cornwall's oldest clubs remains cherished. We hope that this tradition can continue and wish Penryn well for the remainder of the season.
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