Match Preview

Saints play their penultimate league match this Saturday at Tregorrick against old friends Wellington.

Over the past few years the Saints and Wellington have enjoyed some titanic struggles, a look back shows that there is often just one score between the sides. This season Welly have found it hard going and become embroiled in a relegation dogfight. Saints lost against a young and very skilful Welly side 22-18 back in December and, while they were already at the lower end of the table, I certainly felt that they had the potential to climb out of trouble. Sadly it looks as if they will be going down but rest assured we will treat them with utmost respect, there are dangerous opponents and I am sure they will want to finish their season well.

When writing this I came across this Murley on Monday item from 5 years ago, where we won a tight one against Welly 13-6.

It is worth reflecting on the similarities between our situation then and now.

Our Colts then had just won their cup semi-final and were looking forward to their final. Saints were about to play against Camels, then one league higher, in the senior cup final. Interesting to see that we have been involved in important rugby games at all age groups throughout the club for a few years now.

Most interestingly it reminded me that we have always promoted youth into our senior sides. The Saints back line that defeated Welly on that day contained one 18 year old, one 19 year old, one 20 year old and a couple of 22 year olds. That's 5 out of 7 backs aged 22 or under playing against one of the best teams in the league at the time, and delivering the win.

Both Saints and Sinners have hit good form over the last few weeks and with each playing in their respective cup finals on Easter Monday today's game is the last chance for players to impress before sides are selected.

We will be taking 21 players per team down to Redruth, add on the respective medical staff, coaches, managers and supporters and it should be a fantastic day for the whole club, and the town of St Austell. We should also remember our opponents in both cup finals, Wadebridge Camels. They have also done really well and it is a great day for Mid-Cornwall rugby.

The Cup Final will have to wait and the priority today is to register the win against Welly and put pressure on the teams above us. The players know that we won't accept a lack-lustre effort here. We are at our best when we play at a high tempo with intensity and you can't do that if you're thinking about the next game. As for Welly they won't lie down and if they hit their stride they can turn over anyone on the day.

With the atmosphere building up, why not come along to Tregorrick Park, cheer the lads along and enjoy a great afternoon of craic and sport.... COYS !!!!

Webmaster Note: Whilst you are watching the Saints in what promises to be decent weather why not purchase your tickets over the bar (Card payments taken) for our summer dinner with Wales and Lions legend Phil Bennett? Details HERE.