An update on the 2019/20 season so far by Graham Whitmore.
The opening games of the season for the 1st XV in the Western Counties West League have proved very challenging. Up to early October the side have played six games, including a terrific win against Wellington and a draw against Chard. Bonus points were earned in the narrow defeats at Wadebridge and Cullompton and other defeats were suffered at the hands of Tiverton and Bideford. Some 32 players have already played, due to a growing injury list and unavailability of players, which has clearly had an impact on team cohesion and combinations. However, the squad has remained very competitive and positive, as we look forward to the upcoming games against Wiveliscombe, Kingsbridge and Saltash in the County Cup. I am sure the group will embrace the opportunity to test themselves, their skills, fitness, teamwork and above all their commitment to the cause.
The 2nd team have yet to record a win, but considering the number of players drafted into the 1st team they have remained resolute against very strong sides such as Redruth who included some eight players with regular National League experience. An opening day draw against Veor has been followed by defeats against Wadebridge, Penryn, Camborne, Redruth and St Austell.
The newly formed Colts have made a most positive start with wins against Launceston and Wadebridge and narrow defeats against Camborne and Redruth.
Our focus for each of our senior sides is to prepare as thoroughly as we can and we strive to improve week-by-week. Everything we do can and must be done better and the better we get, the harder it will be for teams to beat us.
After a few weeks of training, the Academy section (Youth) have played their first matches and it was heartening to see the ground packed with players and parents for the games against St Agnes and Teignmouth last Sunday.
We are delighted with the new kit and clothing from O’Neills and encourage all players, parents, spectators and members to explore the online shop and promote our club branding. Watch out for O’Neills Black Friday Sale from 25-28 October!
New players, from U7 to U16, and from Colts to 2nds and 1st team, are always warmly welcomed to the club. Training for senior players is on Tuesdays and Thursdays (7.00-8.45pm), whilst the juniors (U10, U11, U14 & U16) train on Falmouth School 3G pitch on Tuesdays (5.00-6.30pm). The U12 and Colts sides train at the club on Thursdays (6.00-7.00pm)
