From Director of Rugby Dave Clark:

And so the season is finally underway and what an exciting opener. Saints vs Paignton proved to be all that it was expected to be – a tense exciting 80 minutes of hard fought territorial rugby by both sides played out in front of a decent crowd at Tregorrick Park.

Saints, under their new Head Coach and player Kyle Marriott showed how effective pre-season had been under the guidance of Kyle, Miles Davey and the Kray Twins, Andy and Chris Ashwin, all of whom make up the senior coaching squad. Their defence was outstanding and in attack they made life very difficult for Paignton who to be fair, defended extremely well.

From the Kick Off Saints were put under pressure with Paignton camped around their twenty two. Paignton were however unable to convert their attack into a score, held in check by resolute Saints tackling and good communications amongst the players to ensure holes were plugged , until after 10 minutes the pressure told and they were awarded a penalty which gave them 3 points. 0-3.

The game switched ends with Saints applying pressure and being rewarded with a penalty, suitably converted by Chris Ashwin. However, Paignton headed off back down towards the Gym end of the park and sloppy play by Saints at a breakdown allowed Paignton to end the first half in front by 6 points to 3.

During half time Kyle spoke to the squad in his trademark calm manner, urging them to focus on what they had worked on at training and just keep applying the same principle, whilst Miles added a little more advice on tackle levels and working through the patterns. Pete Rowe went on for Hugh Noott and the second half got underway.

A seemingly re-invigorated Saints pressurised Paignton, camping inside their twenty-two for a long period. A St Austell scrum on the Paignton 5m line turned into a meaningful drive with Kyle Marriott playing some skilful football from the 8 position. What seemed to some in the stands like a metre too late Kyle confounded the doubters and picked up and dove over to get the first try of the game and his first in a Saints shirt. Again Chris Ashwin added two from in front of the posts and Saints were in the lead 10-6.

From the kick off Paignton were determined to increase their own score and it was only the outstanding and resolute defence work from the Saints that kept them out. The game switched ends several times adding to the excitement and tension before the ball was moved quickly wide to Ben Chenoweth who had space, saw his opportunity and crossed the line for a second, but unconverted try.

This meant Saints ran out winners by 15 points to 6 in a great spectacle of rugby on the opening day. It was evident that the time spent pre-season had been well used in both introducing new attacking patterns of play, as well as strengthening our defence.

Overall a great result and one that the coaches and players are extremely proud of. Our next fixture is away to Saltash next Saturday 8th September with a 3pm KO. If you can please make every effort ot travel and cheer the boys on; I know it makes all the difference to them. COYS!

Parish Notice:
Whilst the Saints are away the rest will play! Of note this Friday we have Cornwall U18's v Plymouth College at 7pm at Tregorrick Park. Entry is free and the bar will be open. The Colts are playing at home against Penryn/Falmouth on the Saturday with an 1130 KO. If you are able please go up and give them your support! Sinners are drawn against Camborne away.