WHARFEDALE 25 – 15 REDRUTH
The Reds signed off their first National Two campaign on Saturday with a 4 try to 2 defeat at Grassington, home of Wharfedale, who themselves achieved a highly commendable League finish in 5th place, and for whom this was their fifth win in a row. ( Their highest was a few seasons back ending in third spot just behind Otley and Birmingham ).
Far from a dull end of season nothing to play for game, Redruth played well, continuing the recent trend of good performances not being matched by points on the board. Well done to Nathan Pedley for scoring his first of the season, whilst Darren Jacques added the other. As much as winning is a habit for Wharfedale, losing has become almost a serious one for Redruth, who have now not won a league fixture since February 18th home to Halifax.
The Reds did finish the game strongly, never gave up, but a long, hard season has taken its toll, and for those not involved with Cornwall in May, a welcome break is just what the doctor ordered.
Redruth side at Wharfedale: Churcher, McBride, Bonds (c), Gidlow ( Blandford 72 ), Pedley, Donald, Richards, Jacgues, Harrison ( Navin 70 ), Heard
( Joyce 70 ), Carroll, Cook, Mann ( Pascoe 60 ), Hosking, Goodwin.
Wharfedale press Officer Chris Ellwood commented on the fantastic support Redruth brought to the Dales, a true credit to the Club.
That means a tenth place League finish, one which, in all honesty, the Club would have taken back in September. The worry is that only 4 league points out of a possible 40 speaks volumes, and leaves much close season work to be done before First team training resumes in July. It’s the worst slump for at least six seasons, but with a 4 month gap before a ball is kicked in anger again, National Two rugby will again be played at the Recreation ground.
Watch this space for major news in the next few weeks !
Sadly, the under-19s failed to make it the hat-trick of Colts Championships, going down heartbreakingly by one point at Launceston.