In a highly anticipated clash between two long-standing rivals, Paignton and Falmouth, it was Paignton who emerged victorious with a convincing 57-17 win, writes Danny Trick.
These two teams have a rich history of facing each other, often in high-stakes matches where both sides are vying for promotion or trying to avoid relegation. Despite the competitive nature of their encounters, there is a sense of camaraderie and warmth between the clubs, with Paignton always enjoying their trips to Falmouth.
Paignton, sitting comfortably in third place in the table, showcased their excellent form from the start of the match. They wasted no time in scoring the opening try, swiftly moving the ball through their agile backline and crossing the try line out wide. However, they missed the subsequent conversion, leaving the score at 5-0 in their favour.
Under the leadership of stand-in captain Ashley Searle, Falmouth managed to work their way into Paignton's twenty-two and came away with a penalty kicked by Tom Townsend, narrowing the gap to 5-3.
Paignton responded with three unanswered tries, once again utilising their quick and skillful backline. They successfully converted one of these tries, extending their lead. However, Falmouth's number eight, Seb Firth, proved to be a formidable force, consistently disrupting Paignton's forwards and gaining turnovers.
Firth's relentless efforts got under Paignton's skin, resulting in a further ten-meter penalty, which Falmouth capitalised on by kicking deep into the corner. From a lineout, Phil Hinchley powered over for a try, and Townsend converted, bringing the score to 10-17.
With some changes to their backline midway through the half, Falmouth gained momentum with the experience of Dan Hubble on the wing and the excellent service from scrum-half Cameron Bullock. Alfie Hammersley injected pace and agility into the backline, but despite their efforts, Falmouth often failed to convert pressure into points. Opting for tap penalties instead of kickable penalty goals, in an attempt to impose themselves and level the scores.
However, Paignton continued to dominate the midfield, slicing through Falmouth's defense. The Falmouth forwards made valiant last-ditch tackles, but Paignton's relentless attacks proved too much. At halftime, Paignton held a commanding 29-point lead, with the score at 10-29.
The second half mirrored the first, with Phil Hinchley once again showcasing his determination and strength by scoring another try off a lineout. His gritty performance earned him the well-deserved Man of the Match award. Townsend, utilising the wind to his advantage, executed a banana kick conversion from a difficult angle out wide. Harry Medlyn who stepped up also put a good shift around the rec.
Paignton continued their dominance throughout the second half, running out convincing winners with a final score of 17-57. Trys from; Jamie Mitchelmore (2), Henry Hoare, Harry Davies, Alex Pozniak, Elliot Browse, Franco Van Rooyen, and Dewald Stoop all contributed tries for Paignton, with Brad McKee converting those that went over.
Unfortunately, this defeat leaves Falmouth rooted to the bottom of the table, fighting for survival in the league. Despite several near misses and narrow defeats this season, the Eagles remain determined to turn their fortunes around and climb the ranks.
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