2009/2010 season

6.3.10 Tiverton 6 pts v Camels 47 pts.

Camels were without several players including scrum half Shaun Hawkey, centre Tom Crothers, lock Dan Lumb, fullback Dan Briscombe and prop Gareth Bilkey. Veteran Camels players Andy Cameron came in at scrum half and Alasdair Mclennan on the right wing but the outcome was unaffected as Camels achieved another league win to maintain their second place spot in the Western League West table with Camborne one point ahead and one game in hand.  Tavistock who were in the bottom quartile of the league were looking for a win to help them maintain their league status.

The first 15 mins saw play evenly spread between the two sides with Camels attempting to play open rugby in the dry conditions but being thwarted by good defending from Tiverton and handling errors. It was Tiverton who had the first scoring opportunity when inside centre Jimmy Atkins missed a drop goal attempt. Camels failed to get a grip of the game as the minutes ticked by and Tiverton were rewarded for their efforts when a penalty awarded for offside after half an hour of play and saw Atkins gain the three points from a penalty to give Tiverton the lead.

This awakened Camels from their stupour and from within his own 22 outside centre Tom O'Donnell ran the length of the pitch from well within his half to provide the final pass to winger Alasdair Mclennen who touched down for the first of his three tries. Luke Davidson slotted over conversion to give Camels the lead. Another scoring opportunity for Camels was denied as they pick and drove from a ruck but the ref was unsighted.

However the resulting scrum saw  Mclennen again receiving the ball to touch down out wide on the right hand wing. With Davidson missing the conversion and with just two minutes of the half remaining Camels maintained the momentum as outside centre Dan Prout broke through the tackles for lock Rob Hawkey to add his name to the try list. Luke Davidson's conversion provide a 19 points to 3 for Camels as the half time whistle blew.

Within 5 minutes of the start of the second half Dan Prout added anothe five points with Cameron Lees converting in front of the posts. The only real highlight for Tiverton in the second half was a well taken penalty by inside centre Jimmy Atkins as they failed to take advantage of Camels flanker Sam Stone being sin binned after 10 minutes of play for an illegal tackle. Camels maintained their dominance and captain Ian Boyling broke from the halfway line to provide the finlal pass to inside centre Ben May to add to the tally and again Cam Lees converting.

Another wave of passing moves was quick to follow and this time lock Mark Grubb touched down under the posts with again Cam Lees converting. Stone returned to the game and Tiverton regained some focus but forced errors never allowed them to threaten the Camels line and it was Mclennen again who scored his third try in the final minute with Lees conversion hitting the upright post but making it over to give Camels a resounding 47 points to 6 win.

Truro are the visitors to the Molesworth Field on Saturday as they look to gain points to improve their fourth position in the league and avenge the defeat they suffered at home to Camels in November. Kick off is at 2.30 pm   

20.2.10 Camels 38 pts v Tavistock 0

With the top three sides in the Western Counties West League all within 3 points of each other this was another game that Camels could ill afford to loose. Within 6 minutes of the kick off Camels took the lead with a penalty in front of the posts through Tom Crothers as a result of an off side offence.

Two minutes later Tavistock were awarded a penalty but Richard West missed the uprights. For the next 20 minutes both sides tended play rather cautiously and it was Camels full back Dan Briskham who added some sparkle to the game as he set off on a couple of  his typical solo runs that gave Camels territory advantage that ultimately they failed to capitalise on.

Both sides were awarded penalties in the latter part of the first half but both kicks produced no further score. With a minute of the half remaining it was Camels prop Matt Ballard who provided some breathing space for Camels when he touched down as a result of a forward drive. Inside centre Dan Prout missed the conversion and Camels finished the half 8 points in the lead.

The second half saw a transformation of play from the Camels as they stepped up a couple of gears and looked more alert. Again prop Matt Ballard was instrumental in breaking free from his own half providing a final pass for Luke Davidson to touch down out wide on the left wing. Another missed conversion meant that Camels were slowly pulling away from Tavistock with 13 points on the board.

With Camels Tom O'Donnell and Ben May taking play up the right wing on a couple of occasions, Tavistock had to defend on a number of occasions and their opportunity came when full back Dan Briskham was sin binned 15 minutes into the second half. Tavistock in turn stepped up the pace and through some some strategic kicks from scrum half Shaun Hawkey, Camels managed to keep their discipline and prevent Tavistock from gaining the advantage of play.

Camels captain Ian Boyling came close to a try that was disallowed as he stepped into touch at the moment of touchdown. Both sides made changes and 25 minutes into the second half Camels prop Matt Ballard, now playing in the centre, completed a passage of eight passes that resulted in his 19th try of the season. Tom Crothers missed the extras.

In the final 15 minutes of play Camels dominated as Tavistock wilted under the pressure. Leigh Charles added a penalty and lock Mark Grubb received a well timed pass from Tom O'Donnell to score an unconverted try. O'Donnell was rewarded for his efforts with a try with 4 minutes of play remaining and flanker Matt Angwin added his name to the try list with a minute remaining with Leigh Charles converting one of the two tries.

13.2.10 Penryn 7 pts v Camels 21 pts.

Camels came to "The Borough" in confident mood to play the return game having beaten Penryn at home in October by 27 points to 16. Camels captain Ian Boyling started on the bench to ease him in as he recovers from illness whilst the inside centre position was taken up by new player Dan Prout who is a former Launceston player. With Camels in second position in the Western Counties West league behind Camborne and Penryn snapping at the heels of Truro in 5th slot it was a key game for both teams in their desire to gain and maintain at least a playoff position to have the opportunity to gain promotion next season.

It was Penryn who had the first opportunity to get points on the board when they were awarded a penalty for a handling offence. Full back Alex Stuthridge stepped up to take the kick in front of the posts but missed. The next 20 mins saw Camels playing most of the rugby in the Penryn half  and this pressure was rewarded with a penalty for offside by Warwichshire exchange referee Dave Drabshaw after 17 minutes of play. Leigh Charles was successful with the kick out wide on the right wing to give Camels the three points. With both side guilty of many infringements and the game being regularly interrupted both sides remained even as the first half progressed. Handling errors crept into the game as the temperature remained close to freezing point and Penryn lost hooker Sam Harrison to the sin bin. A second penalty awarded to Camels after 30 mins of play was missed by Leigh Charles as the kick fell short. Camels continued the press the Penryn line but were unable to add to their 3 point tally as the end of the half finished.

The second half started with Penryn attacking the Camels scoreline but sold defending prevented any score. Another opportunity for 3 points was missed by Leigh Charles after 6 minutes with what appeared to be a straightforward kick in front of the Penryn posts. A minute later a try was awarded to Camels lock Rob Hawkey far out left on the left wing by the referee who overturned the linesman's flag for an infringement. The conversion was missed as Camels extended their lead to 8 points. After 13 minutes of play lock James Mamn was sinbinned and with one man down a driving maul by Camels provided the platform for hooker Matt Ballard to touch down to extend the Camels lead to 13 points.However Luke Davidson missed the conversion out wide on the left wing.

Five minutes later Camels hooker Matt Ballard was unlucky not to score as he broke through the Penryn defence on one of his solo runs. This provided the platform for scrum half Shaun Hawkey to take the ball from the ruck and touch down again on the left hand wing. Luke Davidson was unlucky not to add a further 3 points as his attempt struck the upright and the game remained at 18 points to nil. Penryn responded with pressure but it was in the 28th minute of play when Leigh Charles completed the score for Camels with a well struck penalty to give Camels a commanding 21 points to nil lead.

The final 10 minutes of play saw Penryn in the ascendency and with 8 minutes remaining winger Darren Pellow scored under the posts with scrum half Rob Banks completing the conversion. With no further scores the game finished 21 - 7 in favour of the Camels. Unfortunately for Penryn all the top four sides in the league won won on Saturday so both sides kept their positions in the league table. On Saturday Camels play Tavistock at home with a 2.30 KO.

30.1.10 Launceston Castles 22pts v Camels 2nds 26 pts.

Wadebridge reserves had to take out all the stops in the 2 nd half to come back and win this Merit table battle at Polson Bridge .  The Camels were very slow out of the blocks as the Castles racked up a 22-7 half time lead, with the away sides only score coming from a Nathan Lomax touch down after a catch and drive. 

The introduction of Jack Scott and Adam Coleman made a big impact after the break as Camels came back strongly piling on the pressure and scoring further tries through John Blemmings and Ben Keightley, making the score poised at 22-21 with time running out.  The Camels hammered away at the resolute home defence until hooker Pete Hamilton-Toohey received an offload from Scott and broke down the right wing to score in the corner to secure a vital win in the Cornwall One Merit Table. 

Jamie Taylor's place kicking in his final game before leaving to go travelling was vital in securing the victory and he will be sorely missed.  Man of the match went to stand in skipper James Mutton who lead from the front and was all over the pitch in the loose.

  A very tough game awaits the reserves next week when they visit the Mennaye Field to play Penzance Amateurs.

30.1.10 Camels 36 pts v Okehampton 10 pts.

This game was to be prolific points scorer Josh Taylor his last game of the season prior to travelling with twin brother and second team scrum half Jamie to warmer climates down under. Captain Ian Boyling returned from injury to the bench and prop Adam Flide temporarily took over the captains armband. The first opportunity for a score was presented to Okehampton when Camels were penalised in a ruck three minutes from the start. Outside centre Luke Honeychurch stepped up to the mark with what appeared to be a straightforward kick but was unfortunate in missing the uprights.

It took 10 minutes for Camels to settle into the game as Okehampton had the better of the play. Hooker Matt Ballard returned scoring ways as he joined the three quarters to receive a well timed pass from scrum half Shaun Hawkey to touch down after 15 minutes of play. The score remained at 5-0 as fly half Taylor missed the conversion. Five minutes later it was Camels flanker Sam Stone who powered through two tackles to touchdown but the referee was unsighted and the try disallowed. Encouraged by this, Camels mounted the pressure immediately and winger Tom O'Donnell raced around the Okehampton defence to score a try half way through the first half. Taylor succeeded in the conversion attempt to give Camels a 13-0 lead.

Okehampton stuck to their guns as the game started to slip from their fingers but on the half hour the ever vigilant Camels scrum half  Shaun Hawkey picked up the ball way out on the right wing as it popped out of a ruck to touch down. Josh Taylor added the additional two points to give the Camels a confortable 19 points lead. However with former Launceston and Redruth player Mark Scrivener coming off the bench to take over the fly half position, Okehampton started to gain momentum and were rewarded with a penalty taken by fly half Scrivener 5 minutes before the end of the first half. 

Five minutes later it was Scrivener again for Okehampton who was to touch down as a result of some sloppy defending by Camels. Adding a further two points to his tally Scrivener pulled Okehampton back into the game as the half time whistle went with Camels ahead at 19 - 10.

Okehampton started the second half as they had finished the first by pressing the Camels scoreline but Camels defended everything that Okehampton threw at them. Eight minutes into the half Josh Taylor left the field injured and hooker Miles Davey came off the bench and Matt Ballard moved to the centre. As the frustrations came to the surface in the Okehamton play and with a player sin binned their discipline slipped, Camels sarted to gain momentum and were rewarded when winger  Cameron Lees touched down for an unconverted try to give Camels a 24-10 lead.

With 10 minutes of play remaining Camels were in command and a driving maul spearheaded by prop Gareth Bilkey saw him add to the tally. With Luke Davidson taking on the kicking duties he was unfortunate as his conversion attempt hit the upright. Now 19 points in the lead a second try for Cameron Lees a minute later with Luke Davidson converting completed the afternoon scoring for the Camels.

The victory maintains Camels third place spot in the Western League West as Camborne beat Newquay Hornets at home (49-0) and Kingsbridge won at Withycombe away (7- 45). Truro still remain in fourth position after losing 11-20 at home to Penryn.

Next week Camels continue their campaign for promotion in the Western Counties West league when they play away to Minehead Barbarians, who are third from bottom in the table, in a re-arranged game that was cancelled on January 9th.

16.1.10 Camels 3 pts v Newquay Hornets 20 pts

It was unlucky game no 13 for the Camels that provided the win for Newquay Hornets at the Molesworth Field on Saturday. With 12 consecutive wins under their belt and only missing captain Ian Boyling, Camels were looking to continue their run of wins that started back on September 26th 2009.

Newquay were without their regular locks Ross Robbins and Mark Turton with  Simon Morgan and Mark Ley playing for the first time for the 1st team and regular fly half Chevy Reeve taking over the scrum half position. The first half proved to be pretty even with both sides playing open rugby as the weather slowly but surely deteriorated and both sides failing at the last moment to capatalise on their efforts.

After 25 minutes of deadlock it was young fly half Josh Taylor who slotted over the only Camels points of the match to convert a penalty. As the half drew to a close it was Newquay who were in the ascendancy with some well structured attacking moves.

Newquay were able to level the score after 3 minutes of play in the second half when Sam Cullen slotted over 3 points for a penalty. After 10 minutes Camels prop Gareth Bilkey came on to beef up the pack. However with the temperature dropping and incessant rain Newquay started to dominate the game and after 23 minutes of the second half a long punt down the left wing provided the opportunity for Simon Morgan to touch down. Reed duly converted and Newquay were 7 points ahead. Ten minutes later a well driven maul allowed Karl Maslen to add a further 5 points and again Reed topped up the score with the conversion.

By now Camels were under considerable pressure and attempts to run the ball out of their 22 was thwarted and with a few minutes remaining a penalty to Newquay taken by Reed saw the visitors complete a well deserved 20 points to three win. The victory at the Molesworth Field was even sweeter as Newquay seconds beat Camels seconds by 20 points to 19. Newquay coach Kevin Moseley commented afterwards that their strategy was to stop the Camels playing rugby and was very pleased with the outcome.

Camels coach John May conceded that they were beaten by the better side on the day and is looking to return to winning ways next week when the Camels travel to Bridgwater to play North Petherton.

2.1.10 Hayle 0 v Camels 45 pts. (Cornwall Cup).

The preliminary round of the Skinners Brewery Cornwall Cup produced an unexpected surprise that is rarely, if ever, experienced by even the ardent of rugby fans. The 2nd half of this one sided game was called to a halt by referee Alan Denham 10 minutes from the end when he decided that although one Hayle player had came off through injury, the Hayle side as a team were unable to compete and for the sake of the players personal safety felt it necessary to end the game.

This cup game produced the eleventh consecutive win for the Camels side after a three week Xmas break. Although Hayle play a league below in the Devon & Cornwall league it was to their credit that they never gave up. After 6 minutes of play Camels scrum half Shaun Hawkey  picked up the ball from the back of the scrum and with a neat side step placed the ball under the posts.  Josh Taylor duly converted to give Camels a 7 point lead. Hayle however came back and turned over the ball on 3 occasions but were unable to capitalise on their efforts and after 10 minutes of play winger Ollie Hawkey caught a high ball that was passed inside to provide flanker Sam Stone  his first of two tries giving Camels a 12 point lead.

Hayle set up some attacking moves but stout defending by Camels and a quick passing move from inside centre Cameron Lees to Sam Stone resulted in a second try that was converted by Taylor giving a 19 points lead after only 15 minutes of play. Hayle responded soon after with a drop goal attempt by Hayle outside centre Neil Mitchell but it was Cameron Lees for the Camels who added to the tally with a try after 25 minutes and with Taylor adding the extras gave Camels a 26 point lead. Hayle came back into the game but again were halted by solid Camels defending and in particular long kicks from Josh Taylor relieving the pressure.

After four minutes of play in the second half it was winger Ollie Hawkey who added his second try of the game out wide and with a fine conversion from Taylor   it was 33 points in favour of the Camels. A further eight minutes later and winger  Tom O'Donnell scored a try out wide with again Taylor converting to provide an unassailable 40 point lead. With a quarter of an hour of the second half played coach John May substituted with locks Rob Hawkey and Dan Lumb coming onto the field of play. It was at Hayle two seasons ago that Lumb had sustained a serious ankle injury that had kept him out of the game for 18 months. The final score of the day came 10 minutes into the second half as a result of ten passes of the ball and with Camels hooker Matt Ballard joining the three quarters as he secured the final try of the day which remained unconverted. After a further 10 minutes of play and no score from either side the game ended.

12.12.09 Devonport Services 3 pts v Camels 34 pts.

With Dan Lumb, Richard Treleaven and Ben May restored to the starting line up and having beaten Devonport 63-6 earlier in the season at home, Camels hopes of an away win were realised as they recorded their 11th consecutive league success to keep them in third position in the league.

It took only 2 minutes from the start for Camels to record their first points as winger Tom O'Donnell sped through some poor defending to touch down on the left wing. Fly half Josh Taylor added the extra 2 points to make it 7-0. Services immediately put Camels under pressure and were awarded 2 consecutive penalties with outside centre Matt Anstis contributing their only 3 points of the game with a converted penalty.

Camels started to play more open rugby with the forwards in many of the passing phases and it was lock Ian Burnard providing the final pass to hooker Matt Ballard who touched down 20 minutes halfway through the first half to give Camels a 9 point lead. The remaining 20 minutes of the first half lapsed into a boring phase as neither team gained the advantage but in the final minute of play a penalty to Camels allowed Taylor to stretch the visitors lead to 15 points to 3.

The second half commenced with Camels dominating the play and only intermittent attacking play from Services. The outcome was a second try for O'Donnell after 7 minutes of the second half with Taylor unable to add the extra points. Camels used the dry, windless conditions to their advantage as Taylor consistently kicked for territory with centre Tom Crothers following up one Taylor kick to score under the posts. Taylor again added the extras to give Camels a commanding 27 points to 3 lead with 10 minutes of the game remaining.

Camels replacement winger Olly Hawkey was unfortunate as his attempt for a try was held up but it was three minutes later and right on full time that O'Donnell scored his third try of the day with Taylor converting to give Camels a 34 point to 3 win.

Camels team manager Julian Wilce expressed his delight at the win as Camels have lost this away fixture over the last two seasons but was pleased with a second consecutive game where Camels did not concede any tries.

Services team manager Dave Burgess congratulated Camels on their win but was disappointed as Services never really competed on their own turf and are still building their team after loosing six key players at the start of the season to Brixham.

On Saturday Camels face probably their biggest challenge of the season as they welcome league leaders Kingsbridge to the Molesworth Field in a must win game to give the Camels any chance of promotion for next season. KO is at 2.30 pm with a sponsors day arranged as part of the afternoon. 

5.12.09 Camels 2nds 52 pts v Bude 2nds nil.

Wadebridge reserves recorded a comprehensive win with a 52-0 scoreline.  The first half performance was excellent notching up 40 points through tries from Jamie Taylor, Dicky Dawe, Dominic Hawkey, Sean Johns and two from Olly Hawkey with 5 conversions from Taylor. 

Camels gave the full squad a run out in a disappointing second half which only brought two late tries from Mark Hill and Phil Elkins with one conversion from Taylor .  Man of the match was given to second row Jack Scott for a strong ball carrying performance. 

The Camels have a crucial home Merit Table Game against Penzance Amateurs and would like to encourage spectators not making the trip to Devenport to come along and give their support to the boys in what should be a very tight game. 

5.12.09 Camels 12 pts v Bude nil.

Both teams were at full strength in this local derby but a dull and wet day influenced the quality of rugby with eventually all the points from the game going to Wadebridge in the last 15 minutes of play. With Bude winning at home to Truro and Camels winning away to Withycombe the previous week the desire to build on this success was not forthcoming as both teams played nervously in the first 20 minutes with a series of handling errors and miskicks. With a penalty opprtunity for both sides being missed in the first half and no likelyhood of any tries the game was even at the end of 40 minutes with no points to either side.

The second half saw more spirited play but with heavy rain  throughout the game a series of handling errors and solid defending by both sides prevented any score. Gradually Camels started to get the better of the play with fly half Josh Taylor giving Camels the edge with some fine kicking and it was Taylor who provided inside centre Cameron Lees with a pass that resulted in a try under the posts to give Camels the first points of the game.

Taylor duly added the extras to put Camels ahead after 25 minutes of the second half. Bude responded with some pick and drive moves lead by veteran Barry Sobey that threatened the Camels line but it was Camels captain Ian Boyling who with a similar move scored outwide on the left wing with 5 minutes remaining of the game.

With their 10th successive win in the league Camels remain in third position in the Tribute Western League West and are away on Saturday to Devonport Services.

28.11.09 Withycombe 10 pts v Camels 36 pts

Camels travelled to Exmouth missing players props Gareth Bilkey and Adam Flide, winger Ben May, fullback/wingers Luke Davison, Dan Briskham, centre Mark Diebner and only having two replacements on the bench.

Shaun Johns came in at fullback and Ben Miskowicz returned to inside centre after a long absence. The Withycombe team included five ex-Exteter colts who brightened the game and contributed to containing Camels on a dark, cold and dismal Saturday afternoon.

Camels piled the points in the first half to lead by 26 points to three but allowed Withycombe back into the game in the second half as playing conditions deteriorated. However it was Camels who were awarded a penalty in the first two minutes of play when a kick by Josh Taylor split the line judges and the score remained at 0-0. Camels mounted pressure on the Withycombe side and this resulted in no 7 Sam Stone powering through the Withycombe defence and scoring the first of 6 Camels tries for the afternoon. Taylor added the two points as Camels continued to attack the Withycombe line with colts player and fullback Shaun Johns joining the line and providing the opportunity for O'Donnell to delay a pass that eventually reached hooker Matt Ballard who duly touched down. Again Taylor slotted over the conversion to put Camels 14 points ahead after only 15 minutes.

However two minures later Oxfordshire referee Dave Clayton awarded a penalty to Withycombe and captain Rich Hall duly obliged to tecord 3 points. This inspired Withycombe to mount another attack on the Camels line that was stoutly defended  and a poor kick by Withycombe was caught by Tom O'Donnell to raced to the left wing to place down the ball after half an hour of play. Five minutes later it was the turn again of hooker Ballard to record his second try of the game and his twelth of the season and with Josh Taylor converting Camels ended the first half 26 points ahead.

The second half for Camels started as the first had finished with a phase of play including six passes eventually resulting in inside centre Miskowicz scoring for Camels and with Taylor missing the conversion Camels looked good for more points to add to their tally. However for the next 10 minutes it was Withycombe who had the better of the play after Camels lost scrum half Shaun Hawkey through injury to be replaced by New Zealander Tom Crothers.

Wadebridge started to give away penalties and eventually Withycombe were rewarded for their endeavours when full back Ben Mardle intercepted a pass and touched down. Converting his own try the score was 31-10 in favour of Camels. With five minutes remaining lock Dan Lumb added an unconverted try to give Camels a hard earned victory of 36 points to 10 resulting in Withycombe remaining bottom of the Western League West.

Camels team manager Wilce commented after the game that with so many changes from winning away to Truro in the last game it was encouraging to win the 5th successive away game and in particular for hooker Matt Ballard to yet again contribute with two tries. 

On Saturday Camels are at home to local league rivals Bude in a run up to Xmas that includes Devonport Services away and the must win match against league leaders Kingsbridge at the Molesworth Field on December 19th.

14.11.09 Truro 3 pts v Camels 24 pts.

Prior to the match both teams and spectators observed a minutes silence in memory of Truro RFC stalward supporter Hilda Wills who died during the week. Hilda and her husband Don kept the club alive during the late 60's and early 70's during very difficult financial times.

Camels welcomed the return of Tom O'Donnell, Sam Stone and Gareth Bilkey on an afternoon that was preceded in the morning by strong gales and heavy rain. However the afternoon saw no repeat as these conditions abated It was the small town Wadebridge Camels club who came to the St Clements Hill club to win against the city slickers  - and win they did. 

A penalty awarded to Camels within 2 minutes of the start gave fly half Josh Taylor the first 3 points of the afternoon but within 2 minutes Truro responded with their own penalty as no 10 Ross Martin stepped up to slot over the only points of the afternoon for Truro. For the next 18 minutes neither side could gain the advantage with both missing penalties.

However Camels had the better half as they played the more open rugby with new fullback Luke Davidson making a series penetrating runs into the Truro half that were well defended. Camels tenacity was rewarded 3 minutes from the end of the first half when hooker Matt Ballard in charateristic fashion finished off a phase of 6 passes to touchdown. 

Taylor converted and Truro immdediately mounted an attack but the Camels defence was robust enough to prevent any further score. At half time it remained 10 points to 3 in favour of the Camels.

The second half started as the first finished although this time it was Wadebridge who were dominant with scrum half Shaun Hawkey touching down after 2 minutes and Taylor slotting over the try giving Wadebridge the 17 points lead. A further two minutes later saw Ballard break through three Truro tackles to touch down for the second time and again the trusty boot of Taylor added a further 2 points to give Camels a further 21 points lead.

Truro came back at the Camels and started to show why they were  in third position, one place ahead of Camels in the Western League West table. Their efforts remained unrewarded but Truro kept to their guns as the clock ran down and the game finished at Truro 3 Camels 24.

Former Cornwall Coach and the current Truro Coach  Phil Angove commented after the match that "it was a fine win for Camels but it was a disappointing display by Truro". Camels coach Dave Elston felt it was the best display of the season from a very committed team playing at a high tempo with no tries conceded for the second game in succession. Camels now look forward to their 9th successive win when they play Withycombe away on Saturday November 28th.

The Wadebridge game versus Hayle away in the Cornwall Cup on Saturday has been cancelled and will be played in early January due to Hayle having to cancel their league fixture on Saturday because of a waterlogged pitch.

7.11.09 St Ives II's 35 pts v Camels II's 3pts.

Wadebridge Reserves endured a rare defeat away to St Ives in the Cornwall Merit Table on Saturday by 35-3.  The Camels came out firing in the first 10 minutes mounting a series of charges which lead to a penalty which was slotted over by young scrum half, Jamie Taylor.  St Ives began to dominate the game through their experienced pack and the Camels found it hard to stop their short pick and drive game in very wet conditions.  Despite conceding several scores, the side put in a great effort and the experience of playing against a strong side like this should be a good lesson to the Camels Reserves.  Man of the match was prop Adam Coleman who was presented with a Barrel for his efforts later in the evening.

7.11.09 Camels 51 pts v Tiverton nil

Camels were without Mark Diebner, Tom O'Donnel, Sam Stone and Gareth Bilkey but the outcome was unaffected as they romped to their 7th successive win the the Soutwest West League.  Tavistock were without key players through injury and loosing three to neighbours Cullompton .

Camels were quick off the mark with prop Matt Ballard rolling through two tackles to touch down under the posts. Josh Taylor duly slotted over the conversion. It was nine minutes later that fullback Dan Briskham scored his first of three tries for the day when Josh Taylor offloaded the ball in a tackle to allow Briskham to make the Tiverton line. Taylor uncharacteristically missed the conversion and the score remained at 12-0.With the rain pouring down it took only a further minute for Briskham to score his 2nd try with again Taylor missing the further 2 points.

Tiverton were unfortunate to loose hooker Graham Willis with a dislocated ankle and with Kevin Kingdon coming on as replacement the game continued. Tiverton rallied for a short period but the Camels onslaught continued as inside centre Tom Crothers broke through to score with the try unconverted the score remained at 22-0. Just 2 minutes later it was the turn of outside centre Cameron Lees to add to the tally and after 30 minutes of first half play Camels were 29-0 in the lead thanks to Taylor converting.

Camels remained alert with some good passing moves which eventually reached the hands of Briskham again who duly obliged with try no 3 and which Taylor converted. Tiverton rallied for a few minutes of the remaining first half but were halted by good Camels defending as the ref blew for the end of the first half at 34-0.

Tiverton started the 2nd half as they had finished the first but slick side stepping from Camels scrum half Shaun Hawkey was rewarded with a try from the set piece and Taylor converted to place Camels in the unassailable lead at 41-0. The game entered a 15 minute period of  little action as players were replaced with Briskham, Filde and Boyling being replaced by all the Camels bench and on the half hour winger Ben May was able to add to the Camels tally with a fine taken try. In the final dying minutes it was again Matt Ballard who provided his second and final try that remained unconverted to make it 51-0.

Charlie Burt, chairman of selectors for Tiverton commented after the game that " Camels fitness and teamwork were far superior and Tiverton didn't commit to the first tackles allowing Camels to keep the ball alive" Camels team manager Juilan Wilce was delighted with the win particularly as there was no score from the visitors although in the second half he felt that players switched off mentally.

Next week will be a sterner challenge as the team are away to Truro who are one position above Camels in third spot.

Camels 2nd recorded there first defeat in the Merit Table when they lost 33-3 away to St Ives. On Saturday they are at home to Truro and Camels third team are at home to Bude. Both KO's at 2.30pm at the Molesworth Field.

31.10.09 Tavistock 15 pts v Camels 29 pts.

WADEBRIDGE stretched their winning run to six games with a comfortable victory over Tavistock at Sandy Park.
The Camels have always been strong at home, but this was their third successive victory on the road.
Full back Dan Briskham continued his rich vein of try-scoring form with two more, one converted by fly half Josh Taylor, to help the Camels to a 12-5 interval lead.
Tavistock's first-half points came from a try by Alex Moy after No.8 Jake Phillips had come off the back of a scrum to send over the scrum half.
Tavvy produced second-half tries from wingers Andy Wright and Andy Astley, but Wadebridge had the better of the scrums and flanker Ben Collings was rewarded with a try for his efforts.
Second row Mark Grubb also dotted down for the visitors, with Taylor adding both conversions and a penalty.
Wadebridge team manager Julian Wilce said: "I was pleased with the result. It was another away win for us, and we are starting to get some points on the road, which is different to last season.
"We want to play a nice, open game and stay on our feet, but we are making hard work of it, and we are playing to the opposition's strengths and not our own, by taking it on in the forwards time after time.
'There will be some conditions when we have to play a forward-orientated game, and we've proved we can win when we play that way, but at the moment, while the conditions are still good, we want to be moving the ball around a lot more, because when we do we score tries.
"We showed that on Saturday, with Dan getting two out wide, while Adam and Mark scored with support play out wide.
"That is six wins in a row now for us and there is a bit of a buzz about the place. We are showing some consistency, which is good."
Camels face a home game against eighth-place Tiverton on Saturday, and Wilce said: "We are expecting a big bunch of forwards to come down, they are a very committed side, and if we try and take them on in the forwards, we will make hard work of it."

Wadebridge: Briskham (Davidson 70), O Hawkey, Lees, Crothers, May, Taylor, Shaun Hawkey, Flide, Ballard, Bilkey, R Hawkey, Grubb, Collings, Stone (Treleaven 45), Boyling (capt).

Tavistock: Tries: Moy, Wright, Astley.
Wadebridge: Tries: Briskham (2), Collings, Grubb; Cons: Taylor (3); Pen: Taylor.

24.10.09 Camels 27 pts v Penryn 16 pts.

Penryn travelled to the Molesworth Field  with a depleted side through injuries or unavailability and fielding players with an age range from 17yrs to 40 yrs. Camels were without no 8 and captain Ian Boyling through injury but welcomed back lock Dan Lumb after a week out. Camels run of  four wins in a row was set to continue in an evenly contested match and where Penryn, whilst always chasing the match, never dropped their heads ensuring that Camels were unable to repeat the clean and clinical display at Okehampton the previous week.

The first quarter of an hour was evenly matched but after collecting a ball from within his own 22 it was Camels full back Dan Briskham who powered through a number of tackles as he roared up the left wing to touch down out wide. Young Josh Taylor missed the conversion with the wind in his face on a blusterly but dry day. Within 2 minutes a penalty to Penryn allowed scrum half Taron Peacock to register his first points with a well taken kick. However within a further 4 minutes outside half  Josh Taylor took the opportunity for Camels to extend their lead by 5 points when he slotted over a penalty.

Further penalties to Penryn were not converted into points and an unforunate injury to Penryn winger Josh Chambers after attempting to tackle Dan Briskhanm resulted in him being replaced by Ben Birkett. However with 3 minutes of the first half and Penryn pressing the Camels try line another penalty to Penryn was conceded which enabled Taron Peacock to add a further three points with the score at 8 points to 6.

Camels started the second half with more deternmination and within a minute Briskham added his second try with  a try out wide on the right wing. With the wind now in his favour Taylor  added the additional two points for Camels to pull ahead by 15 points to 6. Camels scrum half Shaun Hawkey made some key tackles on his opposite number in the set pieces that upset the Penryn flow of play. Flanker Sam Stone for Camels was to add a try under the posts that was converted by Taylor and provide a 16 points lead.

Taylor for Camels also used the wind advatage to relieve the defence and in one notable move collected his own high kick and a quick offload to second row forward Rob Hawkey enabled Camels to mount an unsuccessful attack the Penryn line. But it was fly half Mike slater who increased Penryn's points tally with a well desreved try midway through the second half to make the score 22 points to 11. However, another penetrating run from Briskam and a final pass to Camels prop Adam Flide and the conversion by Taylor saw Camels complete their scoring for the afternoon with still 20 minutes of the game remaining.

Penryn took advantage of  the situation as the Camels lacked focus with some penetrating runs by Penryn prop Daniel Booth that caught the Camels defence off guard. Booth was rewarded for his efforts in the final 3 minutes with a well executed driving maul.  With Taron Peacock unable to convert the game finished at 27 to 16 points.

Penryn  chairman Roger Symons commented that whilst the better team overall one the game, he was pleased that the game was played in good spirit and felt that Penryn showed their superior fitness in the second half but were unable to capatalise on it. Camels are away next week to Tavistock in a the ninth Western League West game of the season.

Camels second team had a convincing 47-0 win in their Merit Table match against Penryn seconds away. They scored 7 tries through winger Olly Hawkey (3) with a try apiece for Ben Miskovitch, Jack Scott, Seb Williams and Bryn Phillips. Mark Kempthorne converting six out of seven attempts. The seconds are away to Tavistock on Saturday.

17.10.09. Okehampton 14 pts v Camels 28 pts

Camels travelled to Okehampton with only 2 replacements and four players carrying injuries. Okehampton had two key players missing with two flankers absent. Ally Mason on holiday in Australia and Simon Cox banned for the match. Camels were quick to put points on the board as they were awarded a penalty in the first 3 minutes when 18 yr old Josh Taylor slotted over his kick from 35m in what was perfect playing condidtions. Two minutes later a second penalty was awarded to the Camels and Taylor duly obliged. Camels continued to dominate and their efforts were rewarded when after 10 mins a further penalty was awarded but missed and a fourth penalty a minute later with a successful attempt by Taylor . This saw the Camels nine points ahead and the sin binning of inside centre Dave Wells for Okehampton. Taking the advanyage Camels continued to attack the Okehampton line with Camels Dan Briskham providing his usual long run from the full back position and breaking three tackles on his way but cut short of the Okehampton try line.

After 20 minutes Okehampton started to claw their way back into the game and a penalty awarded for offside was missed by the usually relaiable kicking of Okehampton fly half Carl Poynton. A further penalty to Okehampton after half an hour was also missed and it remained at nine points to nil as the referee blew for the first half.

The second half saw Ben May replace Mark Diebner and within 30 seconds flanker Sam Stone for Camels broke through two tackles to score and the ever relaible Taylor providing the additional two points to put Camels 16 points in the lead. For the next 15 minutes Okehampton started to put together forward moves in the form of rolling mauls that required some stout defending. However it was the very quick and elusive Okehampton full back Gareth Elspin who eventually broke through the Camels defence after 22 mins of the second half to record Okehamptons first points of the match with a try. Lee Cary provided the conversion as Okehampton reduced the arrears to 9 points.This signalled a resurgence by Camels and their efforts were rewarded when the speed of Camels full back Dan Briskham resulted in a controversial try as he clipped the left hand try line post to touch down. Taylor yet again converted with a well taken kick on the left hand line to put Camels ahead by 21 points to 7.

Okehampton kept putting Camels under pressure however it was Camels lock Mark Grubb with 5 minutes of the game remaining who powered his way through three tackles to touch down under the Okehampton posts with Taylor adding a further 2 points to put Camels in an unassailable position at 28 to 7 points . In the final minute Okehampton's rolling mauls were eventually successful with captain and prop Ian Langbridge touching down. Lee Carey slotted over the conversion and the final whistle completed the match with Camels recording their third away win of the season from 5 games.

Team managerJulian Wilce commented that "Camels played very open rugby for most of the game that provided the points but the team's fitness was tested in the latter stages of the second half and this allowed Okehampton to get back into the game. However Camels were delighted with the away win".

Undefeated at home Camels play Penryn on Saturday at the Molesworth Field with a 3 pm kick off.

10.10.09. Camels 50 pts v North Petherton 3 pts.

Its not very often that a rugby team plays complete rugby but for the Camels on Saturday it was certainly the case. All the training, match fitness and game strategies worked like a well oiled machine as Camels romped to a well deserved victory over Somerset side North Petherton with the match played in perfect conditions at the Moleworth Field. North Petherton were without five key players including centre James Carter, prop Harley Brown and second row Simon Gingell.

However it was the visitors who made the initial impact by pressing the Camels line at the Tribute end of the field and only stout defensive work by the Camels prevented a score. Twelve minutes into the game the Camels started to play cohesively and centre Mark Diebner  broke through tackles to release the ball to scrum half  Shaun Hawkey who in turn offloaded to lock Ben Collings to touch down. Josh Taylor converted and the Camels were seven points to the advantage With both sides playing open rugby it was Camels who were to score again within six minutes when fullback Dan Briskham ran from within the Camels 22 nearly loosing his shorts on the way as he handed off three ttackles but created the platform for winger Tom McDonnell to provide a pass out wide to outside centre Cameron Lees who completed the move.

Again the accuracy of Josh Taylors kicking which was very evident for the whole match as he slotted over his second conversion. Within a few minutes it was the turn of North Petherton to apply the pressure as fly half and captain Lloyd Williams put in a long and accurate kick that hit the cornerr flag and bounced into touch. Yet again Camels held their line as Petherton were repelled for their efforts. After half an hour of play Camels stepped up to another gear and with Petherton mishandling near their line it was flanker Sam Stone who took advantage and added to the tally under the posts at the Doombar end with Taylor again on target to make it 21 points to nil. But it wasn't to be all Camels way as an offside error by Camels allowed Petherton full back Matt Angel to add three points with three minutes of the first half remaining.

North Petherton relaxed a little and Camels fullbackDan Briskham broke from within own 22m with typical speed and multiple handoffs to run 50 m only to be fouled thus giving the reliable boot of Josh Taylor another three points. Petherton had a scoring opportunity with an offside awarded to them but fullback Matt Angel was unable to convert as the referee blew for the end of the first half with the score at 24-3 to Camels.

The second half started ferociously for Petherton after captain Lloyd Williams gave a stern team lecture at halftime but Camels came back through after 10 minutes of the second half with  Dan Briskham , who mirrored his first half performance, collecting a pass out wide on the left wing to score at the Doombar end followed by a superb conversion by Taylor .  By now the game was won as Camels were 29 points ahead and the misery for Petherton was compouded by Camels second row forward Ben Collings and another Taylor conversion. Prop Gareth Bilkey was replaced by Rich Treleaven and twenty minutes into the second half and a mulitude of passes between many Camels players it came to Dan Briskham who further delighted the local support with his second try. No conversion this time but a commanding 43 points to 3 with still twenty minutes to play.

It was further good defensive work by Petherton and simple handling mistakes by Camels that  prevented any further scoring opportunities. The game became a little stilted with injuries to both sides as the clock ticked down but not to be outdone it was the ever aware scrum half Shaun Hawkey for Camels who quickly picked up the ball as it popped out of a maul and passed to hooker Matt Ballard who side stepped the Petherton fullback to complete the Camels victory with former Camels colt  Taylor  converting right on the final whistle to complete a 50 points to 3 comprehensive win.

Camels are away to Okehampton next week which will be a test of character as the side needs to build on their recent away form to remain in the top four of the Wetern Counties West League. Currently Camels are just one position above Okehampton who are in fifth. On Saturday the Camels club were delighted to meet Peter "Gus" Carling who along with his brothers Michael and Bill (father of England and Lions captain Will Carling) were founder members of the Wadebridge Camels club in 1955. The Carling family lived at Port Isaac and went to Truro School. Peter was a hooker whilst Bill played second row. During his rugby career Bill played for Cardiff. Peter was visiting the area with wife Mary and theywere all staying at the St Moritz hotel .His brothers who had travelled from their homes in Oxford and Guildford. Peter currently lives in Cirencester and for 35 years served as a commander in the Royal Navy Reserve.

3.10.09. Newquay Hornets 16 pts v Camels 29 pts.

The pre match game by the Colts sides saw a narrow 12 points to 10 points win by Camel Colts against Newquay Hornets Colts.  After a period of calm both the weather and the players behaviour greatly influenced the quality of the local derby with the refree sin binning six players in total throughout the 80 minutes. Camels were quick to put pressure on Newquay at the start, although playing against a stong westerly wind, and forcing errors by Newquay that allowed Camels full back Dan Briscombe to break through two tackles and side step the Hornets full back to touch down under the posts after 5 minutes. Josh Taylor converted and unusually for Camels they found themselves in the driving seat early in the game.

However three minutes later it was Hornets fly half Chevy Reeve who slotted over a penalty as the game took a twist and the rain started to sweep across the pitch. Undeterred it was again Dan Briscombe for Camels who joined the line and was foced out wide to the right after slipping through three attempted tackles and managed to slip a pass inside to Tom O'Donnell who touched down to allow Camels draw further ahead withr Taylor conversion making it 3 - 14. Newquay started to come back into the game forcing Camel errors and allowing Reeve to slot over a second penalty half way through the first half to make it 6-14. Frustrations boiled over and Hornets prop Simon Lutey found himself sin binned and his absence helped Camels to pressurise the Hornets line but without success. It was Newquay who scored again through a Reeve third penalty to creep within 5 points of Camels with 5 minutes remaining of the first half. However another incident resulted in Hornets no 17 being sent off for a high tackle and a minute later with only 13 players in opposition Camels flanker Sam Stone  forced his way through a Hornets defence to touch down. Again Taylor converted to give a 21 - 9 points lead to Camels as the referee blew for the end of a very eventful first half.

Camels started the second half as they did the first by immediately mounting an attack on the depleted Hornets side and with the wind in their favour Camels captain and flanker Ian Boyling made the break that allowed winger Ben May to give the Camels their fourth try of the game. Finding themselves 15 points in the lead, Camels let their concentration falter with captain Ian Boyling sin binned and another forward altercation a few minutes later resulted in Camels prop and ex- Newquay player Gareth Bilkey being sin binned. With Camels down to 13 players it provided an opportunity for Hornets and they were rewarded with a penalty try duly converted by Reeve.

Further altercations four minutes later between the two sides resulted in Hornets no 9 and Camels full back Dan Briscombe being sent off and the final 15 minutes saw both sides return to playing rugby. With six minutes of the game remaining  the final points of the game went to Camels when Josh Taylor added a further 3 points to the scoreline with a well taken penalty from out on the left wing.

Camels:-

Tries   - Dan Briskham , Tom O'Donnell, Ian Boyling, Ben May

Conversions   Josh Taylor(3)                                           

Penalties   Josh Taylor.

Newquay:-

Try - Penalty try

Conversion - Chevy Reeve

Penalties Chevy Reeve  (3) 

1)    Adam Flide                                                           

2)    Matt Ballard                                                              

3)    Gareth Bilkey                                                             

4)    Dan Lumb                                                                 

5)    Rob Hawkey                                                             

6)    Ben Collings                                                               

7)    Sam Stone                                                                 

8)    Ian Boyling (c)

9)    Shaun Hawkey                                                           

10)  Josh Taylor                                                                 

11)  Ben May                                                                     

12)  Mark Diebner                                                             

13)  Tom O'Donnell                                                            

14)  Luke Davidson                                                             

15)  Dan Briskham 

Replacements:-

16)  Richard Treleaven                                                        

17)  Cameron Lees

18)  Mark Grubb.

26.9.09. Camels 22pts v Minehead 12 pts.

With Camels and Minehead having experienced defeats the previous week, both sides had a high expectancy of a win. Camels were especially upbeat as they have a very envious home record of which they are fiercely protective together with not having to experience the 3.5 hour journey from the Somerset seaside town of Minehead . Camels head coach John May had rung the changes from last weeks loosing team at Kingsbridge by including 5 new starters including the unfortunate loss of experienced lock and team manager Julian Wilce through a long term injury. Starting the game for the first time this season were colts Josh Taylor and Luke Davidson as well as flanker Sam Stone and with no 8 and captain Ian Boyling on the bench there was much anticipation by the partisan supporters. Minehead equally had five players back playing after injury and other committments.

Within two minutes of the start it was Minehead who were to take the lead when fly half Simon Avison broke through the Camels defence and passed to outside centre Daniel Richardson who scored and  Avison slotted over the conversion and Camels were 7 points in arrears. After half an hour a series of missed tackles provided a second unconverted try for Minehead with lock  Richard Henson scoring. Minehead were playing above their expectations as Camels appeared to flounder at every opportunity and so at half time it was Camels chasing the game with Minehead 12 points ahead.

At the start of the second half it was Camels who within a minute touched down outwide when right side winger Luke Davidson completed a threequarter move. Coach Dave Elston brought on captain Ian Boyling and prop Richard Treleaven and this appeared to have the desired effect of bringing a more cohesive team effort from the Camels.  A penalty to Camels soon followed with Josh Taylor adding a further three points to the Camels tally. However an injury to Minehead prop Kyle Roberts meant that the rest of the game was played as uncontested scrums.

Camels started to take greater control of the game halfway through the second half but simple handling mistakes meant no further score until 15 minutes from fulltime when captain Ian Boyling broke from the back of the scrum and with Minehead missing two tackles Boyling touched down under the posts allowing Taylor to convert. At 15 -12 it was Minehead who came back to press Camels on their line for a period but solid defending prevented Minehead from adding to their tally. In the last minute of play Camels scored their third try through prop Matt Ballard under the posts with a simple successful conversion attempt by Taylor to complete their second win of the season at 22-12.

Minehead coach Andy Stevens was pleased with his teams performance commenting that it was much better than last week against Truro but Minehead are still without a win in the Western Counties West League . Camels have now two wins from four outings, both being home wins with a short journey to old rivals Newquay Hornets on Saturday who, flushed with their recent run of wins, will be relishing the prospect of a victory against Camels having not won the last four encounters.

Camels                                                                              Minehead Barbarians

Tries   Luke Davidson, Ian Boyling, Matt Ballard               Richard Henson, Daniel Richardson

Conversions   Josh Taylor(2)                                            Simon Avison

Penalties   Josh Taylor (1)

1)    Adam Filde   (c)                                                         David Swann

2)    Matt Ballard                                                               Justin Harris

3)    Gareth Bilkey                                                             Ryan Lewis

4)    Dan Lumb                                                                  Kyle Roberts

5)    Rob Hawkey                                                              David Webber

6)    Ben Collings                                                               Richard Henson

7)    Sam Stone                                                                  Robert Webber

8)    Andrew Ball                                                                Tom White (c)

9)    Shaun Hawkey                                                            Martin Cook

10)  Josh Taylor                                                                  Simon Avison

11)  Ben May                                                                      Oliver Thomas

12)  Mark Diebner                                                              Stuart Ford

13)  Cameron Lees                                                              Daniel Richardson

14)  Luke Davidson                                                             Jack White

15)  Tom O'Donnell                                                             Tom Bishop

Replacement

16)  Richard Treleaven                                                         Steve Hawkins

17)  Ian Boyling                                                                    Sam White

18)  Tom Crothers                                                                Andy Eastleigh

12.9.09 Camels 63 pts v Devonport Services 6 pts.

Devonport Services were looking to build on their home victory over Truro last week and in the first eight minutes it looked as though the proverbial sun was going to shine on them as they took the lead through two penalties courtesy of inside centre Matt Anstis. However, whilst the sun continued to shine it was Camels who started to gain control of the match with ultimately 11 tries and four conversions in a game where the Camels pack completely dominated the play.

First player to start the Camels rout was ex Mounts Bay player and prop  Adam Filde finishing off some fine handling by the three quarters to touch down after 12 minutes. Prop Richard Treleaven followed with the Camels second try six minutes later finishing off another slick passing move. Not to be outdone prop  Matt Ballard added his name to the score sheet and by half time Camels were firmly in the driving seat with the score at 15 to 6.

Camels continued to dominate the pack and it was the turn of second row forward Rob Hawkey to add to the try score when he intercepted a Devonport Services pass to touch down 2 minutes into the second half. Tom Crothers managed to convert his fourth attempt. Five minutes later it was full back Dan Briskham who in typical form finally got into the game and rode four Services tackles to touchdown. Devonport Services kept their discipline and only threatened the Camels line on a couple of occasions. Dan Briskham added his second try at the end of a passing phase between backs and forwards followed two minutes later by a similar move with veteran winger Alasdair Maclennan touching down under the posts. The conversion by Tom Crothers meant the score was now 41-6 and coach John May decided to bring on replacements Josh Taylor, Matt Angwin and Andy Cameron and Services bringing on Dave Hall, Scott Shelldon and Mark Symes.

This change appeared to provide some motivation to Services with play being centred close to the Camels line but quickly Camels regained possession with prop Matt Ballard side stepping Services players as Camels ran the length of the pitch but not being able to capatalise on the effort as Briskham was held up 2m from the line. The final 15 minutes saw lock Rob Hawkey add his second tryand a fine run by Matt Angwin resulted in his first try and in the closing seconds flanker Ben Collings scoring the final try with young Josh Taylor converting one of the three tries.

An excellent team effort by Camels with locks Dan Lumb, Mark Grub and scrum half Shaun Hawkey outstanding on the day which coaches John May and Dave Elston are hoping the level of performance will be repeated at Kingsbridge away on Saturday in an effort to take the points from a side that beat Camels both home and away last season.

Camels Tries - Adam Filde, Matt Ballard (2), Rich Trleaven, Dan Briskham (2), Rob Hawkey (2), Matt Angwin, Ben Collings, Alisdair Maclennan.

Conversions - Tom Crothers (3), Josh Taylor (1).

Services.

Penalties - Matt Anstis (2)

Camels - Rich Treleaven, Matt Ballard, Adam Flide, Dan Lumb, Rob Hawkey, Mark Grubb, Ben Collings, Ian Boyling (c), Shaun Hawkey, Tom Crothers, Ben May, Mark Diebner, Cameron Lees, Alisdair Mclennan, Dan Briskham. Replacements - Josh Taylor, Matt Angwin, Andy Cameron.

Services  - Lee Cooper, Jay Geruty,Olly Laird, Dave Perriman, Chris Woods, Gareth Williams, Ivan Polo, Dave Chauley, Mike Lane, Matt Anstis, Ben Mcgowan, James Hamond, Del Stokes, Karl Ranscombe Replacements - Dave Hall, Scott Shelldon, Mark Symes.

5.9.09. Camborne 23 pts v Camels 5 pts.

For the majority of the first half Camels were the slightly dominate side although missing around 6 key players due to work committments and a wedding.  The first half saw no score until 5 minutes from the end when Camels gave away the ball to Camborne and winger Adam Knotman raced over the line to score. The try was converted by fly half David Mankee with the score remaining at 7-0 in favour of Camborne as the first half came to a close.

The second half reflected the first for around 15 minutes but gradually Camborne gained more ball being influenced by Camels flanker and former Launceston player Ben Collings being sin binned and an injury to prop Bilkey. It was Camborne who scored again15 minutes into the 2nd half  with a penalty from Mankee. However a good passage of play from Camels saw full back Andy Cameron recieve a final pass that resulted in a try after 22 mins of the second half. Although it was unconverted, Camels became more energised  with a shift around in the front row when prop Bilkey came off to be replaced by expeirenced flanker Gavin West.  However, it only took another 4 minutes for Camborne to score their second try through a well staged driving maul resulting in full back Joe Palma finishing off the move. By now Camborne were more dominant and generally slicker as Camels conceded a second converted penalty and in the final minute of play a third try through Mankee.

With lineout specialist Julian Wilce unavailable it was good to see Dan Lumb take over the role and playing in his first league match in the second row after 18 months with an injury sustained at Hayle.

Camels Tries - Cameron.

Camborne tries - Knotman, Mankee, Palma

Conversions - Mankee

Camborne Penalties - Mankee (2).

22.8.09. Camels v Weston Super Mare (friendly)

A Camels win was going to be a challenge and so it proved to be. W-S-M play two leagues above Camels in National Division 3 West and their league seniority was demonstrated during this friendly game. However in the first half league status had no meaning as Camels for the most part took control of the game with the first and third try through explosive winger Danny Briscombe  and flanker Matt Angwin. Briscombe unfortunately sustained a blood injury halfway through the first half and by halftime Camels it was even at 5-5.

The second half saw W-S-M take more control of the game and with 25 Camels players taking part the opposition took advantage of this and were quicker to the rucks and secured their lineout ball. Two tries for W-S-M in the last 5 minutes sealed their victory with a 27 points to 10 points win in what was a very entertaining game.

Tries:-Camels, Dan Briscombe, Matt Angwin.

W-S-M:- George Wright, Neil Treveane, Paul Sprigg conv Sprigg, Kirk Middlemass (2), Steve Lang.

****************************************************************************************************

1.11.08. Camels v Kingsbridge

Camels knew from day one of the season that this fixture was always going to be a tough one. With the clash of a club member's wedding on the same day, Camels had to cope without the likes of Ballard, Boyling, Stone and Briskham to face 2 nd place Kingsbridge.

In a physical encounter from start to finish Camels found themselves 3 points down after 10 minutes as the visitors fly half struck over a penalty due to Camels using illegal use of the boot on a player who was seen to be killing the ball. Shortly after a dive for the try line was awarded to Kingsbridge only for the referee to be told that it was in fact the 5m line. The referee awarded the visitors a scrum which they were able to disrupt the home side and before they knew it, were over the line with an unconverted try by Kingsbridge No.8.

The rest of the half was even stevens, both of which winning their own set pieces. Both teams wanted to play open rugby and hopefully the crowd saw this. Towards the end of the first half a final serge by the visiting pack saw a forward driven over the line to make the half time score 0 – 13.

After some words during the interval Camels started very well and were camped in the visitors half for the majority of the 3 rd quarter. Solid defending from Kingsbridge kept any scoring opportunity by Camels limited. Finally, prop Rich Treleaven found his way near the line and during a last tackle off loaded to flanker Gav West to get Camels back into the game at 5 – 13.

Camels kept on at hunting for more points but a street wised pack of forwards and a disruptive backline kept the home side out.

“Naturally I'm frustrated and disappointed but we did all we could. They were a very organised side and gave them too much respect early on. We performed better in the 2 nd half, that's about the only positive we can take out of the game.” said Wilce

“We've lost our record of 27 consecutive league wins at home but to be honest that was starting to get to players. It's hurt us and I believe it'll make us a better side now that that's out of our mind.”

Team: Treleaven (Burnard 75), Toohey, Bilkey, Lock, Wilce (Capt), R. Hawkey (Grubb 60), West, Angwin, S. Hawkey, J. Kneale, O. Hawkey (McCarroll 65) Olivey, Miskowisc, MacLennan, Cameron

18.10.08. Camels v Old Colfeians

It was an historic win at the Molesworth Field this weekend as Wadebridge played host to London based side Old Colfians in the EDF Energy National Trophy which Camels have never played in before. Their success of winning the Cornwall Cup saw them qualify for this competition. They are the lowest league side to qualify for this competition and had to face the Londoners who are positioned two leagues above them.

In front of a large crowd, Camels had to face a faster than usual paced game as Old Colfians liked to move the ball around. The home team set off with a bang but found themselves up against some solid and arrogant defence. After some slick handling from Fly half Leigh Charles, MacLennan found himself in space and was brought down. Some quick phases in field saw Camels closing in but an infringement from the Londoners gave the home team 3 points from a penalty by Charles.

Camels were clearly dominating the scrums and lineouts. This gave them much possession and territory but could not break the final line of defence. A penalty attempt from the visitors was their only opportunity of the half but it sailed wide. The half time score was 3 – 0.

Two minutes into the second half the Camels were 5m away from the visitors try line, as the ball was spun out a misunderstanding between the backs saw the ball get spilt and visiting full back Andy Muldoon hacked the ball down field and collected his own kick. A fine cover tackle from Charles halted the player but an off load to centre Alex Wicks saw him touchdown in the corner taking the score to 3 – 5. 5 minutes later Camels were back in the scoring zone and after a few phases from the forwards scrum half Shaun Hawkey went blind and fed the ball to right wing Angus MacLennan who angled in towards the post to a roar from the crowd and players. A fine conversion from Charles saw the score at 10 – 5. With 10 minutes to go, a tackle on left wing James Sarjeant by MacLennan halted the game as the Londoner broke his leg. The match was stopped for about 25 minutes until the Air ambulance lifted him to hospital. For the final 10 minutes Camels couldn't get out of their own half or get their hands on the ball. A rampant visiting side threw everything they had at the home line but just could not find a way through. Finally a crucial turn over saw replacement Fly half Jake McCarroll boot the ball into the distance and the Molesworth Field erupted to the referee's final whistle.

“Every tackle had to count. Players were in agony and falling apart but still found the commitment to make those crucial tackles for those last 10 minutes. We've worked hard on defence as this wins matches; today was a perfect example of that.”

Team: Treleaven, Ballard, Bilkey, Lock, Wilce (Capt), R.Hawkey, Boyling, Angwin, S.Hawkey, Charles (McCarroll 75 mins), O.Hawkey, Olivey, Miskowicz, MacLennan, Cameron.

11.10.08 Camels v Withycombe

The first names Wadebridge Camels would put on their team sheet are Ballard, Boyling, Stone, and Briskham. Unfortunately these were unavailable this week due to a stag do in Western Super Mare. Fortunately for Camels, they could call upon the experienced flanker Gav West, who had considered retirement after winning the Cornwall Cup, to play his first match of the season.

From the first play of the game, Camels received a kick off and conceded a penalty straight away which Withycombe capitalised on and took the 3 points. Winning the ball back from the kick off, Camels spun the ball wide to their ‘inform' winger Angus McLennan who brushed his opposite winger aside and with one man to beat he passed inside to West to score. It was much of a stalemate for 20 minutes and a breakthrough came when young fly half, Leigh Charles jinked his way through the defence and ground the ball in the corner. 10 minutes later, a ball off the top of a lineout by Wilce saw the ball spun wide to the speedy winger Ollie Hawkey to sprint away for another 5 points for the home team. The final score of the half came from the determined Withcombe side who were seeking their first win of the season. This was scored by replacement prop Manning and converted by Seeck.

With the score at 15 -10, the visitors felt that they could leave the Molesworth Field with 2 points. 4 minutes into the second half Ollie Hawkey showed his pace yet again to dart away for his second try of the match after some good interlinking passing between forwards and backs. 5 minutes later prop Richard Treleaven sold a dummy and crashed over to take the score to 25 – 10. Camels were dominating the game now, but they began to lack the clinical edge and missed several more try scoring opportunities. With Charles inform again, he was able to give a precision kick to fall in the hands of the illusive Andy Cameron to cross the line. To rub salt in the wound, Camels caught the kick off and passed it to centre Ben Misky who, from inside his own 22m, sprinted off the length of the pitch to score in the corner after selling a handful of dummies. Young McCarroll, who came on at full back kicked the touch line conversion. Just like the first half the spirited Withycombe had the last say with a consolation try to get the final score to 37 – 17.

After the match player coach Wilce said, “This game was always going to be a worry for us as we had know over a month that we'd be missing several key players.” He continued by saying “What I really enjoyed was seeing players coming in and stepping up to the mark especially hooker Pete Toohay and I know Westy will never let the side down.”

“We've got a break from the league this week as we have to play host to London based Old Colfians. Two leagues above us, we know nothing about, they know nothing about us. The odds are totally against us but I'd back my players any day!”

Team: Treleaven, Toohay, Bilkey, R. Hawkey, Lock, Wilce (Capt), R. Hawkey, West, (Burnard 70), Angwin (Cruse 55), S. Hawkey, Charles, O.Hawkey, Olivey, Misky, McLennan, Cameron (McCarroll 65)

May 08. 2nd team season review.

Wadebridge Camels second team brought their season to a close by receiving the Cornwall Merit Table Division One trophy at Redruth. Un-fortunately, they could not end the season with a victory against a very strong Redruth Development team in wet and windy conditions. It is the first time in Camels history that they have won this title and all players involved should feel really proud of themselves.

This year Olly Lock took on the captaincy and pre-season soon indicated that there would not only be competition for places in the first team, but also the seconds. This later lead to the formation of a Camels third team. The season started with a run of eight straight wins for the second team, playing a fast brand of rugby with a very strong defence.

Un-fortunately this run came to an end in a pulsating top of table clash at Penzance on the Mennaye Field in early November. Despite fielding their strongest team of the season, Camels went down 35-25 against an experienced and committed Pirates team who will surely re-enter the leagues as an amateur side at some stage with the playing talent they have. This loss coupled with obstacles put in front of the Camels in Penzance would be stored up and used for motivation for the return fixture later in the season.

During the core part of the season the Camels squad was stretched with injuries and un-availability and the first team were pleased to be able to promote players into their squad who had been playing a good standard of rugby and would be more than capable of playing in the Western Counties league.

The destination of the Merit Table title was really decided in February with two crucial home fixtures against Penzance and Redruth Development on consecutive Saturdays. The Penzance game was a highly physical and intense battle in which Camels gained revenge with a 16-5 victory with crucial scores from Ant Merrett and Will Curnow. The defence from the Camels in this game was amazing lead by the forceful back row of Dicky Dawe, Neil Meneer and Michael Pearce. This victory was followed with another crucial result against Redruth and despite conceding a couple of soft scores, the Camels won 32-24. Outstanding prop Adam ‘Barrell' Coleman, enjoying a fantastic season, was Man of the Match in this game with his bullocking runs and hand off's exciting the home crowd. During these two games and throughout the whole season, fly half Matt Bailey made some very influential performances and was the teams highest points scorer.

The Merit Table title was secured with a 25-0 away victory at Launceston with a solid and hard working performance at the end of March. The season came to a bit of an ant-climax at Redruth with the loss and the un-fortunate occurrence of a mix up with the presentation. The least said about that the better! Despite this the team celebrated the most successful season the seconds have ever had long into the night with a Captain's night in Truro . The team would like to thank all the boys from the Eclipse Nightclub in Truro for making them feel so welcome and showing them such a good time.

The future is very bright for Wadebridge Camels and it is very important for the club to have a successful reserve team and strong squad. With a collection of very promising Colts coming through, next season could also be one to remember.

Thanks boys for all your hard work and commitment. More Captains days to come next year, Moonshine!!

5.4.08 Bude v Camels Cornwall Cup Final

For the first time in history Wadebridge Camels won the Cornwall Cup final at St.Austell at the weekend. Their opponents were North Cornwall rivals Bude. The teams have already met this season in the league and Bude won that encounter 12-7 so the final was always going to be a close one.

A large crowd had gathered to mid Cornwall, Wadebridge providing two full coaches, and their presence was easily noticed as the Camels ran on to the pitch. Neither side were holding anything back with solid runs and powerful tackles made by both teams. Most of the play was around the halfway line and 15 minutes in Camels edged their way towards Bude's 22m line and were awarded a penalty which fly half Jamie Kneale slotted over to take a 3-0 lead. After some good phases and solid rucking by the Camels' forwards Kneale lofted a pass out wide to Gary Gynn who committed to players in the tackle and was able to off load to lock Rob Hawkey to crash over for an unconverted try. Straight from the kick off Wadebridge caught the ball, 2 rucks later O'Donnell passed the ball to full back Dan Briskham on his own 22m line and off he went. Leaving a trail of Bude defenders for dust, he ran 80m for a try under the post. Kneale added the extra points. For the remaining 15 minutes of the half there was no extra score. Bude mauled their way back in to Camels territory but the forwards defended like Trojans and were able to stop the Bude steam roller.

In the second half Bude came out firing and set up platforms which created their trademark mauling game. They were able to keep Camels in their own half for long periods but with no reward. Finally on 60 minutes they were able to maul themselves over the line out wide for flanker Dave Uglow to crash over for an unconverted try. For the 20 minutes left in the match Camels were only able to get out of their half once by a break away solo run by Gynn who was able to link up with fellow back rower Matt Angwin , who 10 meters from Bude's line had his pass intercepted. Powerful runs by Bude skipper Barry Sobey and prop Dave Risdon kept testing Wadebridges defence but they couldn't find a way through. The last 5 minutes saw Bude attacking from 10m out but they didn't add another score. The crowd erupted and the players rejoiced to the sound of the final whistle. Final score 15-5 to Camels.

“This will take a while to sink in. I've won it 3 times before, but this feels the best yet winning it with Wadebridge. These guys just need recognition for the work they put in and identified as quality players – the silverware says it all!” said Wilce.

“We didn't see much of the ball, especially in the second half but we did our research and it paid off. It felt as if the lads were defending for their lives. Seeing the trophy with all those big names, Penzance , Launceston, Redruth… now Wadebridge, it's truly great. ”

Team: Treleaven (Boyling 60) Ballard, Bilkey, R.Hawkey, Wilce, Angwin (Cruse 78 min) Stone (West 65 mins) Gynn, S.Hawkey, Kneale, Cameron, May, O'Donnell (S.Hawkey 55 mins), McLennan (O. Hawkey 78 mins), Briskham(Mascall 78 mins)

29.3.08 Camels v Ivybridge

Camels were able to make it 2 out of 3 against Ivybridge this season as they went head to head last Saturday. In the windy conditions, both sides were running hard at each other. From the start Camels ran into Ivybridge's 22m but lost the ball. As it was kicked down field the Ivybridge winger was able to kick it on and await a timed bounce into his hands to get the 1st score after just 3 minutes. The conversion made it 7-0. Ivybridge using the elements, forced the home team back in their own half and a lineout from the visitors saw them cross the line to make the score 12-0 in as many minutes. Once Camels sorted things out and tidied up ball presentation and recycling at the breakdowns, they moved the ball well in the backs through McCarroll and Mascall seeing McLennan score his 19th try of the season. This was followed by a touch line conversion by fly half Kneale. Wadebridge started to gain control of the game and from a well drived lineout in Ivybridge's half skipper Gynn ran through 3 people to power over for an unconverted try. 12-12 was the half time score.#

10 minutes into the second half the Hawkey brothers linked well on a blind side move which involved scrum half Shaun pass to winger Ollie to score in the corner. Ivybridge continued to battle but the elements were against them and the home team were gaining confidence and momentum. 22 minutes into the second half the instrumental McCarroll sold a dummy to break away and score in the corner. Again converted. The fitness and mentality of Camels were shown and this allowed them to dominate the last quarter. This was shown on 32 minutes when No.8 Sam Stone went over from the back of the scrum after the pack's 5m drive.

"The last 2 weeks we haven't started too well. We'll have to ensure we hit the floor running next week as Bude are not a side that drop head and they will play for the full 80 minutes. Today, i believe that many minds were on next Saturdays game. We still need to concentrate on the league."

"Next week we're going to stay relaxed and enjoy the match but never give up the opportunity of Wadebridge Camels becoming County winners"

Team:
Treleaven (Boyling 35 mins), Ballard, Bilkey, Hawkey, Wilce, Angwin, Stone, Gynn (West 55 mins), Hawkey, Kneale, Hawkey, McCarroll, Mascall, McLennan, Cameron.

22.3.08 Camels v Camborne Cornwall Cup

For the first time in club history Wadebridge Camels will appear in the Cornwall cup final. At the weekend Camels played host to Camborne for the second year in a row in this competition. With a large crowd watching the memorial match before meant a large crowd was brewing for the semi final.

The game started with a fierce Camborne side on the rampage led by skipper Dave Roberts. On several occasions Camborne were penalised for foul play, try to intimidate Camels, but Camels were warned of what to expect and were rewarded with some penalty kicks to clear their lines.

On the 11 th minute, a penalty by Camels for foul play gave Camborne an opportunity to kick to the corner and from the lineout flanker Eaton was driven over which Mankee converted. Camels reply took 3 minutes when some tidy forward play sucked in the defence and once the over lap was created moved the ball to O'Donnell who drew the last defender and passed to McLennen to score in the corner.

In the 21 st minute another penalty was kicked to the corner and again Camborne were able to score through Bartle. The conversion was missed by Mankee. With 5 minutes to go before half time Camels fullback Dan Briskham cut an awesome line outside the centre to score under the posts. Kneale converted. The half time score was 12-12.

The first score in the second half came 8 minutes in when Bartle claimed his second try of the day. This was immediately replied by a typical Gary Gynn try with a sprint in from open play to score under the posts. The score was level again at 17-17. After this is was all one way traffic from the home side.

The turning point was when Camels turned the ball over near their own line and Briskham ran 80m and was just about to be tackled and passed over his head to McLennan for his second of the day. From the kick off the ball was gathered by Wilce who set up a ruck, from which flanker Stone made a break out of his own half and unfortunately in setting up the final pass, the ball was knocked on.

With Camborne in possession, the wanted to run from their own half and a telegraph pass saw scrum half Shaun Hawkey intercept and run in under the posts. Camels were running riot now and dominating the scrums and driven lineouts giving them much possession and territory. The final play of the match saw a break away try from fly half Kneale to beat a staggered defence and run under the posts, taking his total tally for the day to 15 points.

“Personally I believe we thought they'd play well and we let them to start with. I think the occasion got to us a bit as it was a situation we haven't been in before. It wasn't until we went ahead that we relaxed which is when we play better. We can learn from this! This is great for the lads; they've worked hard and deserve an opportunity to play in a final”

“All I want is Camels to be recognised as a club that has belief in going places and entertain the local crowd.”

8.3.08 Minehead v Camels

Not for the first time this year Wadebridge Camels had to travel away from home with out several players in key areas. At the weekend they had to fulfil their longest journey to Minehead in Somerset . They were looking to complete a hat-trick over a team needing a win to stay in the league.

Things got off to a bad start when Camels turned up and only had half an hour until kick off after a misunderstanding with the kick off time. Earlier in the week they were told 3pm kick off but on arrival the referee and Minehead committee stated a 2.30pm ko. So after a quick change of clothing and a slight giggle of the Camels' players names were adjusted to in the programme made the start a little frantic.

This obviously had an effect on their game as the home side were able to get an easy run in try which was converted. Minutes later they were awarded a penalty for an infringement which saw them extend their lead to 10-0. After that stint of pressure Camels started to play some rugby in the rain but could no execute the moves and either got turned over or knocked the ball on. Majority of the 1 st have saw Minehead having to defend their lines. Pressure mounted and frustration was kicking in as the Camels continually kick the penalty to the corner and their effective lineouts were disrupted but the home side continuously collapsing the driving maul. No matter how much appealing, the referee was oblivious to the continuous infringement. Finally the Camels were awarded a 5m scrum and Number 8 Gary Gynn picked up from the base of the scrum and drove over to make the score 10-5 at half time.

A solid 2 nd half start saw Camels tested in defence as Minehead, again, came out firing. The score stayed like this for 25 minutes. With 15 minutes remaining, the visitors were able to claw their way back into the home half and were awarded a penalty which was converted by full back Matt Bailey taking the score to 10-8. Camels known for their determination streak, were looking the side to score next but solid defence and ‘effective' turning over of the ball from Minehead saw them score next. 5 minutes to go, a loose Minehead hand knocked the ball out of a Camels driven lineout and somehow the ball ended up on their side and quick hands up the hill by the home team's backs saw them get a converted try. With the score at 17-8 Camels worked hard to get in strike range and with the final play of the game Minehead gained possession and broke away uncontested to run in the corner to finalise the score of 22-8.

“We knew we had our work cut out as the club is suffering in the backs department due to injury, illness or personal issues. You have to give credit to the guys who stepped up.” said Wilce.

“For our outstanding openside flanker Samuel Stone to travel 2 ½ hours, play at 12 shows the commitment of some of our players. To finish the game with our centres consisting of a flanker and a prop shows that it's a testing time for us.”

“The lads have got a week off now. This means we can battle harder this week in training and focus on the mouth watering fixture on Easter Saturday.”

Team

Treleaven, Ballard, Bilkey, Hawkey, Wilce, Angwin, Boyling, Gynn (Cruse 65 mins), Hawkey, Kneale, Hawkey, Stone, McCarroll (Burnard 75 mins), McLennen, Bailey

1.3.08 Camels v Penryn

Wadebridge Camels continued their dominant form at the Molesworth Field at the weekend. They played host to an already relegated Penryn side which resulted in a 53-0 win to the Camels. It only took 9 minutes to get on the score board, a break by outside centre, Jake McCarroll saw him pass inside to flanker Matt Angwin to score near the corner. McCarroll missed the conversion. Then on 15 minutes a trade-mark run by full back Dan Briskham saw him run 75 meters and end up under the posts. From the kick off there were a few rucks and another break away from Briskham saw him off load the ball to left wing Boo Tancock who ran in Camels' third try, converted by McCarroll. 25 minutes into the first half, after some good handling skills from the forwards, McCarroll received the ball on the half way line and after a couple side steps sprinted in the corner and was unable to convert his own try. The home forwards were dominant in all areas. This gave a solid platform for Number 8 Gary Gynn to pick up from the base of the scrum and burst 30m to score. The half time score was 29-0

In the second half, Camels had the wind behind them and had to defend the first 5 minutes as Penryn showed some form and passion. But this was soon extinguished when Ben May ran in a try on 45 minutes after good inter linking between forwards and backs. The Camels forwards took control in Penryn's 22m and after some tight power play they were held up just short by a determined Penryn side but as the ball appeared at the back of the ruck, snipping scrum half Shaun Hawkey dived into score. 50 minutes into the game a neat chip over the defensive line by Kneale was collected by McCarroll who got a final pass off to May to run in for his second of the match. With nothing to play for anymore, Penryn tried a more physical approach which unfortunately made the game scrappy which was disappointing for the large crowd. This period of the game saw the visiting veteran lock Kevin Hughes sin binned for punching a player in front of the referee and the instigating substitute hooker Phil Wells receive some of his own medicine!

Two minutes from time saw the final try of the game, coming from a well worked set move starting from the lineout and 3 pre-called phases saw Gynn run in for his 2 nd try of the game.

“I was pleased with the team today. We were able to show that we can play a tight game or an expansive game when it suits us.” Said Wilce. “In a way I'm glad there was a bit of rough and tumble because if we stepped up a league I know that there will be more of that from some of the Gloucestershire sides.”

“Today there were some individuals who I thought deserve a mention, the first being young Jake McCarroll who is developing game by game and Boo Tancock who has only played 2games this season due to his work in the Fire Brigade and moving out of the town. Boo has always been a reliable and committed player and is only a phone call away.”

Team: R.Treleaven, I.Boyling, G.Bilkey, R.Hawkey (G.West 60mins), J.Wilce, M.Angwin (D.Cruse 55mins), S.Stone, G. Gynn (Capt), S.Hawkey, J.Kneale, B.Tancock, B.May, J.McCarroll, A.McLennan, D.Briskham (M.Ballard 38mins)

14.4.07 Camels v Wessex

Camels finished their 2006/2007 season with a convincing win against a disruptive Wessex team. The home crowd had plenty to view as they saw Camels run in 10 tries to Wessex 0. The win today sees Wadebridge finish the league joint top but Paignton are champions on points difference.

The Camels started the points coming straight away by scoring a try in the 3 rd minute when forwards and backs linked well to see Dan Briskham score in the corner. From the kick off the home side set up a solid platform and span the ball wide to O'Donnell, who's slick hands fed Alistair McLennan who ran in to score in the opposite corner. Wessex tried their best to slow and kill Camels' ball to keep the score line minimal but the home sides forwards were too organised and powerful to allow this to happen. Further tries in the first half came from a 50m sprint from Briskham and another trademark power run from McLennan and with the last play of the half Wilce was driven over from a lineout. The half time score was 25-0.

Wessex were unable to do much with the little ball they had due to the solid defence from all the Camels.

As usual Matt Ballard was everywhere and he was rewarded with a try after a powerful run through two defenders before the touch down. Shortly after, Camels were again in striking range and a lofted miss pass out to Ollie Hawkey on the left wing saw him dash round to the posts. The flying Scotsman got his hat trick of tries from another fine run taking his seasonal tally to an amazing 21 tries.

The game was held up for 10 minutes by an incident which saw a player from each side ending up in hospital, both with leg injuries. When the game continued it was still all one way traffic with fine runs by Gynn, Boyling, Hawkey and May. Camels opened their style of game right up by running from any pitch position and further tries came from Dan Lumb who received a short pass from Hawkey, and a solo run from Jamie Kneale taking the final score to 54-0.

“At the start of the campaign we set ourselves 2 targets, to get promoted and win every home game. I'll have to set harder targets next season!!”

“This season's team has shown great character. People think rugby is just about physical pressure but winning sides have to cope with the mental pressure and we've certainly felt that this season and not buckled one. A lot of the lads have not felt this type of pressure before but I've been so proud as to how they've handled it.” Said Wilce after the game.

We have a great bunch of lads and that is a large part of our success. Hopefully the majority will be around next season.

John May got everyone together after the whistle and said that he's been impressed with the teams seasonal performance. Haven't lost since September and winning 19 league games in a row is something to remember! Team

Briskham (May 40), McLennan, O'Donnell, S. Hawkey, O. Hawkey, Kneale, S.Hawkey, Finnemore, Ballard, Bilkey, Lumb, Wilce (Lock 50), Boyling, Davey (Treleaven 60) Gynn (Capt)

24.2.07 Camels v Tavistock

The last time Camels were defeated in the league was back in September up in Tavistock and this time round they were determined not to let the Devon side stop the Camels undefeated run of 15 consecutive matches.

Camels chose to play with the wind behind them, wanting to put points on early. After 10 minutes of up front battling captain Gary Gynn picked up from the base of the scrum and made a determined run through several players to score under the posts. Camels began to control the lineouts and were able to make valuable ground from their powerful drives. They were able to capitalise on this when Julian Wilce caught the ball and set up a drive that saw his prodigy 2 nd row youngster Dan Lumb score his second try in as many weeks.

The next try was from some quick phases and when released to the backs, some slick passing saw the ‘Flying Scotsman' score yet again in the corner. Tavistock made some powerful runs and defended very well and were awarded a penalty which took the half time score to 17 - 3.

After the turn around Tavistock now had the wind behind them. They came out the far determined side and within 5 minutes their Fly Half dummied his way to score under the posts and kicked his conversion. Camels found themselves camped in their own half and seemed to find no way through the Devon defence. Finally a break down the left wing by Ollie Hawkey finally put the Camels in striking range and the forwards took this opportunity to power their way over with hooker Matt Ballard breaking off to score in the left corner. This lifted the home teams sluggishness and they constantly ran at Tavistock's defence but there was no way through!

The final score was 22- 10.

“We looked very sluggish today, I was watching and wondered, how many had late nights!” Said coach John May.

“I don't want to watch the video, but to play like that, against a team like Tavistock and win is great!” added Wilce. “The main area to work on for the run in to the end of the season is decision making” “I might be fussy but there are only four matches left and very little room for error.”

17.2.07 Wellington v Camels

Despite the terrible weather this week, the game between Wellington and Wadebridge went ahead. After the 2 ½ hour drive to Somerset ....Camels were mentally aware that this is a hostile ground and with them only losing once at home this season.

In the sticky conditions Camels played up the slope and demonstrated that they meant business. The 1st half was a very controlled game from the visitors, taking Wellington on in the forwards and starving the home side of possession. With this Camels were able to capitalise and soon it was the ‘flying Scotsman' Alasdair MacLennan, who crossed first in the corner to take the lead.

Some good runs by Camels' centres of May and O'Donnell got them into attacking territory. Wellington were continuously penalised by the Somerset referee and opting to kick to the corner they used their powerful forwards and this led to the next try. This time prop Brian Finnemore came up last from the pile of bodies from a lineout which was driven 30m.

With the possession that Wellington had, they were very limited for options as the Camels defence seems to be finding some solid form. They attempted kicking to the corner but failed to make touch only to allow Briskham to run straight back at them!! This put the visitors right back into Wellington 's half and gave them opportunities to try new things they have been working on.

A heartened Wellington move got them into Camels territory but again conceded a penalty and lost momentum. With a clearance kick by Kneale the Camels had a lineout move from which hooker Matt Ballard ran in 40m untouched. Half time score was 17-0.

The second half Camels tried to open things up and again made good distance. It striking range again it was lock Dan Lumb finding space, side stepping two players and diving in the corner. That was it for the Camels scoring. Wellington stepped up a gear and found themselves in Camels half for the last quarter. After continuous failed attempts of driving for the line Wellington had a scrum and a strange decision awarded Wellington with a penalty. It was quickly taken and their fly half scored under the posts. That virtually being the last play of the day.

“I was very pleased with our attitude before and during the game, especially in the first half when most of the damage was done.” Said coach John May. “The conditions weren't great but with a back row like we had, we were not going to lose”.

“I keep drilling into their head that they are steps away from making club history. Success means so much to me and the players and they want the reward desperately” added Wilce “Still, there's 5 games to go and we are focusing on this week when Tavistock come to Molesworth Field.”

Team:-Briskham (Pretty 65), MacLennan, O'Donnell, May, (S.Hawkey 65), O.Hawkey, Kneale, S.Hawkey, Finnemore, Ballard (Davey 50), Bilkey, Lumb, Wilce, Treleaven, Boyling, Gynn (capt) .

03.02.07 Camels v Falmouth

A full strength Camels side was able to be fielded against the physical Falmouth. Camels learned a lot from the previous encounter a fortnight ago and were able to work on these aspects throughout the week. They clearly worked as Camels came out victorious 50 - 24, taking a closer step towards their promotion campaign.

The home side opened up with an early penalty by Jamie Kneale and this was shortly followed by a catch and drive by the Camels forwards seeing tight-head prop Gareth Bilky drive over for his first try of the season. Falmouth came on the attack and were awarded a penalty after kicking off. They kicked to the corner and after several attempted drives, finally found their way over the line. In reply to this young Ollie Hawkey was at the end of a good passage of play from forwards and backs to sprint in the corner to extend his side's lead. The home side then tried a new move which involves all 15 players which resulted in Dan Briskham breaking away and scoring under the posts.

This run seemed to ignite Briskham's enthusiasm and two more deadly runs saw him set up a try for Ian Boyling and great position for the forwards to attack and see Shaun Hawkey cross the line. Unfortunately Camels didn't stick to the game plan and tried running from deep in their own half only to give the ball away and some quick hands from Falmouth saw the visiting winger score in the corner.

The second half saw the Camels forwards begin to suck the life out of the visiting forwards and were over powering in the scrums and rucks. This set up a solid platform and quick ball for the in form backs to run with. Great running from Ben May set up a halfway line sprint for Tom O'Donnell and Briskham doubled his tally with a 60m sprint. Falmouth came back with two further tries but the game was out of reach for them. A Camels game would not be the same without a try from MacLennan so he got himself on the score sheet. The final points of the day came when the orchestral scrum half Hawkey darted under some arms to score. The final score was 50 - 24.

“Looking back at the video we have got lots of areas to fine tune. I was please with the way we played. There was some real entertaining rugby ” said Wilce

“This was a positive result and both John and I feel he chose the right people for the day!”

“We are now training towards Wellington who have a very good home record and we need to work hard in training to come away successful” team

Briskham (Pretty 60), MacLennan, O'Donnell, May, Hawkey, Kneale, Hawkey, Finnemore, Ballard, Bilkey, Lumb, Wilce, Boyling, West, (Davey 60), Gynn (capt)(Treleaven 65).

27.01.07 Okehampton v Camels

For the second time in the season Wadebridge had to travel to Devon to face the hostile crowd of Okehampton. On their first visit the beat the home side 26 - 7 in the cup but this time it was more important, it was the league.

Losing the toss, Camels had to play with the slope to begin. But it did not help to start with as Okehampton were very passionate to make amends from the previous encounter. Their powerful forwards drove and drove into the heart of the Camels defence for large spells. After one of the home sides rampage they were awarded a penalty which they converted. Camels finally got possession and camped down in Okehampton's corner and a close, powerful drive by scrum half Ollie Hawkey saw him get Camels back into the game. From a similar position, the visitors drove at Oke and in form flanker Miles Davey was driven over taking the score to 12 - 8.

Okehampton responded well and camped on the visitor's line for 5 minutes and finally got over with a driven try. The half time score was 12 - 8 to Camels.

In the second half, Camels were experimenting their style of play by trying to be more expansive. This gave the backs a lot of ball and they were able to use their danger men out wide. They even ran from behind their own line making 50m before going into touch. This didn't always pay off as they were trying to pass ball which really they shouldn't have.

For the majority of the second have Camels were running well with the ball and so too were Okehampton. There were three separate occasions where Camels wing, Ben May came off his wing to make the last gasp tackle inches from his line.

In the final 10 minutes fly half Jamie Kneale scooped up a ball and dodged his way through some half hearted tackles and gave Camels some breathing space. This followed a set move from a line out, a couple phases of play and Birthday boy (18) Dave Pretty was able to sprint through the gap and touch down for their final try. The score was 24 - 8.

After the game, coach John May said, “Today we tried new things, sometimes it paid off, other times it didn't.” He praised a number of people for their efforts, especially in defence.

“I couldn't ask for more in term of defence from the players. We knew that we'd be having to spend long spells defending, especially close to our own line. It is annoying conceding a try but I didn't mind it only being one with all the pressure we absorbed!” added Wilce.

Team:

Pretty, McLennan, O'Donnell, Hawkey, May, Kneale, Hawkey, Finnemore, Ballard, Bilkey, Lumb, Wilce, Boyling, Davey (Treleaven 65), Gynn (Capt).

20.01.07. Falmouth v Camels

For a second week running Camels found themselves using their large squad due to late flu victims and players with personal reasons. They ventured down to a reformed Falmouth side who are fortunate enough to have recruited a number of higher league Penryn players.

Playing against the elements in the first half Camels found themselves defending for large spells. The ball that they did get was easily thrown away by the visitors. With these errors and continuous loss of ball Camels were camped in their own half and finally Falmouth made the break through with their prop scoring the first points of the day. Camels were able to put some phases together but Falmouth's style of play at the break down frustrated Camels and many of the supporters!

The visitors won a line out and powerfully drove their way into the home sides half and flanker Miles Davey broke off and sprinted in to make the score even. A careless drop ball from the restart gave Falmouth an inviting position to attack from, which is what they did. Quick phases and hands saw their full back score in the corner to make it 10 -5 at half time.

The second half became more physical as the frustration at the break down kicked in and Camels took matters into their own hands. This freed up some ball and a few phases put together and then the ball being spun down to the wing saw Ollie Hawkey run in 60m for the equalizing try.

Camels started gaining momentum and with 10 minutes to go were awarded a penalty in front of the post. Obviously opting to take the points, only to see the ball drift wide of the up rights. The final score finished 10 - 10 with both sides disappointed with the result.

“I feel the referee should have controlled the break down much more. They were allowed to do anything in there! We have them at home in two weeks time. We know what to work on in the build up for that game. I need our fell strength side back”

“The best thing out of today's game was the fact that we were losing for the majority of the game but we never considered defeat”

Team :-Pretty, Bailey (Hawkey 60), O'Donnell, May, Hawkey, Kneale, Hawkey, Finnemore, Ballard, Bilkey, Lock, Wilce, Treleaven (Hawkey 70), Davey, Gynn (Capt).

06.01.07. St.Austell v Camels

Wadebridge went into this game with several players out due to the dreaded flu and some players were carrying slight knocks. A delay in the kick off time was frustrating due to a referee not turning up. Fortunately, a spectator who came to watch the game was qualified and he stood in.

In the horrid conditions, Camels played into the wind and capitalised on two early penalties which young Sean Hawkey successfully converted. There was then a dry spell until St.Austell kicked the ball midfield and Hawkey gathered it up and ran 40m before off loading it to centre partner O'Donnell to score. Hawkey added the extra two points.

With the Camels forwards dominating the set pieces, they opted to kick to the corner and put continuous pressure on St. Austell and this paid off with a catch and drive move that flanker Ian Boyling scored from. This took the half time score to 18 - 0.

In the second half a spirited St. Austell side ran faster and harder with the ball and started putting pressure on the Camels, where they had to defend more than the first half. Gaining possession again Camels took it on in the forwards and came away with two further tries by the other two back row players of Treleaven and Gynn. This took the score to 28 - 0. Gaps were opening up in the midfield for the backline to run through but either handling errors or wrong decision making prevented Camels from extending their lead.

The final score came with the last play of the move and it was from the home team, who finished the stronger of the two sides, with a powerful run from No. 8 who was held just short and passed to the winger to score under the posts. The final whistle blew after the successful conversion.

It was a frustrating game to play in. You cannot put phases together against a team like St. Austell. We knew their style, their passion and this was considered a banana skin fixture in our promotion bid.

We really need to go back to basics and sort out our structure and decision making. Very strong words were said by both May and Wilce in the silent changing room after the game, questioning commitment and attitude.

Things have got to be put right during this week. I never want us to play like that again. The players need to be at both training sessions if they want to be considered in next Saturdays fixture. Sorry to the 40+ travelling supporters.

Team: Pretty, McLennan, O'Donnell, Hawkey, May, Kneale, Humphreys, Coleman, Ballard (Davey 50), Bilkey, Lumb, Treleaven, Boyling, Gynn (Capt) ( Derry 65)

16.12.06. Camels v Cullompton

Christmas will be a much happier time for the Wadebridge players due to their success at the weekend. League leaders, Cullompton travelled down to the Molesworth Field where a full strength side awaited them. Only a month ago Camels travelled to this fixture and came away with a 5 -5 draw. They wanted to make amends to that days' performance, and so they did.

Again, another strong crowd saw Camels power forward and before long they were able to spectate a trade-mark catch and drive which saw loose head prop Brian Finnemore crash over for the 1 st try of the afternoon. Good structure got the Camels forwards into striking range again and influential flanker Gav West welcomed his long awaiting return with a scurry over the line to take the score to 10 – 0. Cullumpton put pressure on the home team and were awarded a penalty which they were able to convert. More fluent passing and powerful surging runs from Lumb, Boyin, Wilce saw Camels in range yet again. Cullumpton had to clear their lines which they did with a huge 40m kick only into the hands of Dan Briskham. He decided to run at the players, carving through at least 5 like a hot knife through butter. From the break down Ballard made a trademark fun and smoothly off loaded to Kneale in the tackle for the fly half to score under the posts. Half time score was 15 – 3.

From the kick off Camels caught the ball and passed it to Tom O'Donnell, who scorched 70m down the touchline and with the fullback to beat passed inside to his centre partner Sean Hawkey to score and also convert. With a convincing lead now of 22 – 3 Camels thought they could do want ever they wanted and got caught in their own half. Cullompton got the ball and put some good phases together and the visiting hooker powered over to score from close range. They then gained possession and were able to score again bringing it to 22 -13. Camels upped their work rate and were beginning to break down the visiting forwards allowing lots of pressure in their half but Cullompton defended well. They broke out of their own half and were awarded a penalty which they kicked to get within 7 points. But in the final quarter Camels had their foot on the opponent's neck and gave a killer blow with the best scrum of the game, running over the visitors and after some physical runs, captain Gary Gynn dived over to score. This brought the final score to 30 -16.

After the game Wilce said “This was the biggest game of the month. We had a heavy month and our main focus were the 2 league fixtures which we've come away with maximum points.”

“The players are thriving on success, each time I introduce something new, they show me that they can do it, not only in training but more importantly on Saturdays! Players are beginning to excel, which is why we're succeeding. Shaun Hawkey, Matt Ballard, Dan Lumb and Jamie Kneal are in top form.” Wilce added.

Head coach, John May said “I don't know what I'd have done with myself if we had lost today. This win has made up for our defeat last week”

I honestly believe that John May fell asleep with a bit of a grin on his face Saturday night.

09.12.06. Camels v Barnstaple Cup.

5 minutes…just 5 minutes away from victory. What an excellent game the spectators saw at the Molesworth Field last Saturday. An unbeaten Barnstaple side, from the league above, travelled down to Wadebridge in the 4 th round of senior vase expecting to have a field day.

Camels went into this game as clear underdogs, especially with the unavailability of Finnemore, West, Boyling, Briskham and top try scorer McLennan, all regular starters for the 1 st 15. Camels had their record of being unbeaten at home this season to look after and knew this would be a challenge but they were clearly ready for the battle which commenced.

In front of the largest crowd this season Camels came out firing. The usual powerful runs and forwards being robust, the home side found themselves in strike range and from a lineout drove and found new signing Pete Bush drive over from close range giving Camels an early lead.

All the ball that Barnstaple had, they seemed to be running in circles due to the passionate defence of Camels. A few wrong decisions from the home side gave Barnstaple possession and they put a few phases together and got a score which was converted. Camels came back and were very physical at the break downs which certainly disrupted the possession of the travellers. A penalty conceded in the home teams half gave Barnstaple the opportunity to add a further 3 points, which they did.

A lineout from Camels saw young centre Sean Hawkey break through the defence and off load to the robust flanker Sam Stone who sprinted in for Hawkey to add the 2 further points. The rest of this 1 st half saw a player from each side getting held up over the line. Half time score was 12 - 10 to Camels.

The second half saw Camels in control again, especially when they played a quicker style. Frustration kicked in when Barnstaple were penalised 4 times in a row at the break down and one of these penalties were in front of the post which Hawkey converted, taking the score to 15 - 10.

Barnstaple put pressure on, knowing they were heading for a shock result and for the last 5 minutes found themselves close to the Camels line. On the 80 th minute, after continuous pressure, No. 8 scored from a scrum much to the delight of the visiting players. They now led 15 - 17. Camels had minutes to chase the game and needed to keep the ball alive so tried running out of their 22m but lost the ball and Barnstaple scored again with the final play of the day!!

“I was gutted with the result because it was there for the taking, but full credit our players. Not one of them was phased by the occasion, not even the non-regulars. I just asked them to go out and give it your all and do yourself proud.” Wilce said

“The passion and commitment in the team was unbelievable. I cannot fault any one of the 19 players.”

“I hope that this shows that we could cope in the league above as Barnstaple said that this is the hardest game they've played this season. We have learnt things from today and we must take that forward to this Saturday which our biggest game yet, home to league leader Cullompton. It would be great to see the same number of crowd”

02.12.06 Camels v Honiton

Wadebridge Camels were looking forward to playing back at the Molesworth Field after a 3 week absence. A strong crowd were able to enjoy an exciting game which turned into a one sided battle.

Camels started strongly with a solid 10m scrum in Honiton's half. Scrum half, Shaun Hawkey picked from the base of the scrum and darted over in the corner for a great start.

This gave Camels more momentum and the forwards were able to get their catch and drive line-outs working gaining valuable ground. As the ball was released down the backline, winger, Alasdair MacLennan score his first try of the day. Jamie Kneale kicked the conversion.

Increasing pressure from the forwards involving powerful runs from Kev Derry and Gary Gynn saw Camels camped in Honiton's half. This led to a 5m scrum which No. 8 Gynn pick and drive himself over the line. The half finished with an excellent line from MacLennan coming off his wing and receiving a ball from Kneale which saw the Scottish winger score his second try under the posts.

With a 24 -0 lead at half time, Camels began to play a more expansive game which saw inter linking between forwards and backs. Unfortunately some of the home team's moves didn't pay off due to handling errors or else the score line could have been more!

A ball that went loose from Honiton saw Camels exciting winger Dan Briskham hoof the ball on twice and sprinted in for a try out of nothing. With a convincing lead the home side had a slip of concentration which allowed the visitors No.8 to score and was converted. Some stern words were said to the home side and after that they scored more tries from MacLennan getting his third, young Ben May running 30m and Tom O'Donnell sprinting 40m with the last play of the day.

A convincing win but still room to improve if we want to get promotion.

“I'm very pleased with this result. We played the conditions well and executed some well worked moves. ” said coach John May.

“We played well but we gave away too many penalties. We now have a retired referee who comes training and today he kept statistics of the game. I'll meet with him and see how we can reduce the tally.” Wilce added.

“Next week is a cup week and we are playing Barnstaple here! We could do with a big crowd. They have a 100% record this season in the league above. I just want to go out and enjoy ourselves”

18.11.06 Devonport Services v Camels (Cup)

Wadebridge Camels pulled off a great win against Devonport Services, a strong team in the league above themselves. Not only did the Cornish side have to cross the Tamar to play but they also had a number of players not available due to County or personal reasons.

For the first 10 minutes, the away side held their own in the set pieces but in open play made careless errors giving possession to Devonport. This gave the home side lots of ball and they soon capitalised on it with a drop goal and shortly after a converted try, by a break from their fly-half who off loaded to their centre to score under the posts.

After 20 minutes and some firm words to the Camels their concentration raised and started putting phases together. This allowed the visitors to put much pressure near the home teams line. After a monstrous amount of pressure, Devonport lock handled the ball on the floor and he was given 10 minutes in the bin. Camels kicked to the corner and a well worked lineout saw Captain Gary Gynn pushed over for a try. In the same 10 minutes Devonport tried clearing their lines but kicked it to young winger Miscovich who ran, chipped the ball only to see it bounce back into his hands to score a try. Devonport had the last say of the half with a penalty taking the score to 13 – 12.

The Camels had words at half time and adjusted their game plan, working their way deep into the home teams half. The forwards had a huge power serge and hooker Matt Ballard crashed over for a try. From the restart, Camels collected the ball and ran out of their half by Gynn who off loaded to centre MacLennan to run 50m with a few side steps finishing under the posts.

Devonport came back with their dangerous backs. Camels were found off guard and a quick switch ball saw the home winger score in the corner (3 rd referee would have said he went in touch!) This was shortly followed by another backs move by the home team and this conversion gave them the lead.

Being 1 point down and 15 minutes to go, Shaun Hawkey picked up an injury and a substitution had to be made. A quick rearrangement of the Camels found just 17 year old Jake McCarroll at full back. Camels found the power to get themselves into the home sides half and as we thought Devonport gave away another penalty. 5 minutes to go McCarroll said that he could slot the 45m attempt over. After some coughing and spluttering from the home camp, he put in a huge kick straight between the posts to the delight of the players and noisy travelling supporters.

Camels defended their half with passion winning 3 of Devonports lineouts starving them of possession and to the relief of the players the final whistle went.

“I don't show much emotion but I can raise a smile for the result, but not for the overall performance! I hate leaving Cornwall , the only time I'm out of the county is when it involves rugby. It certainly makes this visit worthwhile” stated coach John May.

Wilce said “We had to re jig the team for this weeks game bringing in 4 players who don't usually start for the 1 st team. It shows that players can come in the side and fit straight in, especially flanker Rob Hawkey”

He added “For Jake to come on the pitch and slot the winning kick was memorable for the club and hopefully him. What won the game for us today was an ingredient we've been working on for a while…belief!!”

28.10.06 Okehampton 7pts...v...Camels 25pts. Cup.

Camels were able to maintain their away wins with a solid performance against a powerful Okehampton side. Due to the sloping pitch and weather conditions, it was certainly a game of two halves.

The home side came out with a great determination and fire which kept the camels in their half for much of the first half. Camels found themselves constricted to their own 22m line. 25 minutes into the game saw an incident involving fullback Andy ‘handbag' Cameron, reduced the visitors to 14 men as he was shown a yellow card. Continuous pressure finally told after a spell of driving mauls allowed an Okehampton flanker to be driven over the line. The extra points were added with a successful conversion.

Just before half time Camels worked their way up the slope and were finally awarded a penalty which Jamie Kneale kicked. The half time score was 7-3.

With the wind and slope both in Camels favour, all the play was down in Okehamptons half. As the home team tried to clear their line, they failed to make touch and the ball was caught by winger Matt Bailey, fed down the line to Tom O'Donnell who switched with wing Alistair MacLennan to run in 20 meters for their first try. This was shortly followed with a catch and drive lineout that went over the line and Julian Wilce came up with the ball.

With Kneale putting the visitors in great positions with his boot, Matt Ballard claimed the next try from a well worked lineout.

Coach John May now made his changes to give his fringe players a run out and shortly after Wilce claimed his second try of the day receiving a short pass from Shaun Hawkey and ran in 30m to slide under the posts. Positive runs from Ben Keightley almost saw him get a try, but was tackled short of the line. The final score was 7-25 to Camels.

Camels are hoping for a home tie in the next round of the cup and ask for the continuingly growing crowd to support as usual.

May says that another win in the cup is a bonus for us, but we need to get our league heads on again and concentrate on Saturdays local derby, home to St.Austell.

Wilce stated that “we had five regular starting players out for this tricky game and the lads that played did very well. It'll be interesting this week in training as three of the five are available!!”

He added “To receive man of the match today from John was great as I've tried to focus more on my game rather than the whole team. Hopefully it'll pay off more often”

21.10.06 Perranporth 5pts...v... Camels 77pts

Number 13 was the lucky number for Wadebridge Camels as that was the number of tries they scored against Perranporth. Not only was it a record score for the Camels but they got their first away win of the season.

The reliable travelling supporters were able to enjoy the entertaining game provided by Camels. After 10 minutes of continuous pressure and a few handling errors Camels were able to cross the line when Captain Gary Gynn popped up in midfield to sprint in for his first of 5 tries . With the line outs working well and scrums being solid, gave Gynn plenty of opportunity to make yard after yard linking with his back row and half backs.

As Camels increased their lead, through tries by Alasdair MacLennan, Sean Hawkey, Dave Pretty and a further 2 from Gynn, they were able to change their style and began to play a very fast and open game which left the home team lost for defensive ideas. Players were making great breaks, drawing the defence and pass to numerous supporting players. At the half time whistle the visitors were in front by 40 – 0.

It was important to keep some kind of structure with a lead like that and in the first 15 minutes of the second half Camels seemed to take their foot off the accelerator and found themselves making handling errors and wrong decisions. It took a pick and drive try by Perranporth which was not converted to put the Camels back in shape. Straight from the kick off they won the ball and scored by fly half Jamie Kneale. This was shortly followed by a catch and drive lineout which created the opportunity for scrum half Shaun Hawkey to scamper through the defence to score his try.

A further 2 tries came from Gynn, young Hawkey getting his second Danielle Bonanno (who seemed to be everywhere). Winger Bryn Phillips finished the day with a try created by Matt Bailey chip ahead which Phillips grounded. Centre Sean Hawkey kicked 6 of the conversions making the final score 77 - 5.

After the game, coach John May said, “I was slightly disappointed with the number of chances we threw away, but I'm glad that we were able to create those chances.” He was really pleased with the inter linking play between forwards and backs and seeing the talented backline shine.

Wilce added, “It was important to get an away win under our belt, it was a bonus that it wasn't only a win but also a great team performance.”

7.10.06. Camels First XV 46 pts...v...Cullompton 12 pts

Wadebridge Camels proved to their coach that their mental toughness has improved. Last week they were winning by 20 points and they then let the opposition back and put themselves under pressure. This week, by half time, they were 26-0 ahead and they were warned not to have a repeat of last week.

Camels set off with a bang. Excellent running from the young, exciting backline and powerful runs from the forwards, especially from captain Gary Gynn who was later named Man of the Match. The forwards were able to dictate the game with solid scrums and guaranteed lines outs from Lumb and Wilce. This led to the first try of the game with a catch and drive 10m out allowing lock Andy Ball to score, (this was later claimed by Dan Lumb!). This was shortly followed by a pick at the base of the scrum for No.8 Gynn to score taking the score to 14-0. Camels always looked in control, even when they had to play with 14 men for 10 minutes due to an incident which the referee showed Wilce a yellow card. During this time winger Dan Briskham scorched through numerous attempted tackles to score under the posts. Back with 15 men, Camels broke away from their own 5m line with a trade mark run from MacLennan linking with Wilce, West and finally Briskham to score in the corner. Camels finished the half with another catch and drive lineout which was this time scored by prop Finnemore. The half time score was 26-0.

The second half was much similar as the first in terms of players making excellent yards time after time. Gav West being everywhere, Ian Boyling making hard hits, Gareth Bilkey punching holes.

Great passing from Hicks saw MacLennan run 30m to score his try. From the kick off Briskham scored for his second of the game.

Great tactical kicking from young Jamie Neale put the forwards in attacking positions for the backs to run off. Substitute Dave Pretty came on and caught every high ball, cover tackled very well and made a neat break to score under the posts.

Due to Cullumpton's front row injuries, the scrums had to go uncontested which gave the visitors a steady platform to score off twice.

“We are definitely improving game by game” said Wilce. “With a newly shaped squad for this season, it has taken time for players to become familiar with each other. We need to keep focussed and concentrate on one game at a time. We have been fortunate to have 3 consecutive games at home, the crown is really starting to pick up and we enjoy performing to our supporters.”

Wilce finished with “We must be heading in the right direction because our coach, John May, even showed a slight smile at the end of the game”

The evening was completed with a ‘Quiz Night' of which 50 members dressed in fancy dress to try their best at answering 100 questions with a few drinks on the way!!

It was won by Team TOPGUN consisting of Michael O'Boyle, Andy Ball, Olly Lock and Matt Bailey. Well done lads.

23.9.06 Tavistock. 17pts...v...Camels First XV. 15pts.

“Camels will have their work cut out, travelling up to Tavistock.” This is what has been echoing around the community for the last fortnight. This early in the league the Devon side has already been labelled league favourites. This was enough to motivate Camels, who with a few absent players, had there mind set on a better performance than last years 55 – 0 visit.

From the kick off Camels showed that they meant business with some big hits and powerful runs. The first score came with a break from the ever reliable Tom O'Donnell from his own 22m, off-loading to Angus MacLannen who sprinted 60m to score in the corner. Camels tails were high and Tavistock seemed shell-shocked. Good phases by Tavistock kept the visitors in their own half for several periods but the home team were unable to score. An excellent run by the Camels backs saw Sean Hawkey linking with Andy Cameron to dive in the corner which looked a try but the Devon referee over ruled the touch judge and said that a foot went in touch.

On the stroke of half time, Camels saw a huge overlap which would have seen a definite try only to see it dropped and the sniping Lee Gratreux scored in the corner for the home team to make it 5 -5 at the break.

In opening period of the second half, Tavistock made a break which caused Camels right wing Angus commit a professional foul and have 10 minutes in the sin bin. During this period, Tavistock capitalised on the extra man and came away scoring 2 tries giving them a lead of 17 – 5.

The slope against Camels and a 12 point difference, they really had their work cut out. The visitors' hard fitness sessions started to pay off as in the last 20 minutes of the game an excellent break from Matt Elston saw him run in to the left of the posts. Almost immediately from the kick off the Camels put some phases together up the slope and some fast passing from left to right saw gaps open up in midfield which let captain Gary Gynn sprint through Tavistock's split defence like Moses parting the Red Sea. The heads were high and the 30+ travelling supporters had belief. Camels thought that they had sealed the win when full back Dave Pretty chipped the ball through to the try line and dived for a well deserved win, only for the referee to again not allow it convinced that a Tavistock defender grounded it before Pretty. That was Camels last chance as just after that the final whistle was blown and it finished 17 - 15.

“We came here with real belief and show this league that we are true contenders. Every one of our players feel that we won that game. If just one of those tries were given the points were ours and we would see this as a famous victory” stated Wilce. “It is very disheartening to come here, play as well as we did and come away with nothing.”

Coach John May was pleased with the performance. “the boys showed real character and fought back well to get within 2 points. A lot of teams heads would have dropped, but not ours.” Our fitness has improved and it showed today. May pointed out flanker Gavin (teapot) West for his doggedness around the part and awarded him the Man of the Match.

16.9.06. Camels First XV.36pts...v..South Molton.3pts.

Wadebridge Camels were able to field a stronger side this week against a determined South Molton team. After a week of training which involved much fitness, new moves and ironing out creases, the Camels were able to give a convincing home win. Camels, captained by the return of lock Gary Gynn, showed some exciting rugby early on with some excellent backs moves which unfortunately came away with no score due to some final passes being dropped.

With the Camels having to battle hard against the agricultural forwards, there were stages of stale-mate. Finally, from nothing, Tom O'Donnell produced some of his magic and scored an excellent individual try. This was followed straight from the kick off with the forwards catching the ball, setting up a quick ruck then the ball span wide for the camels to score again. Towards the end of the first half Camels found themselves camped in their 22 for a 10 minute spell but great physical tackling and determination made sure that the visitors came away with nothing. But after a quick steal and holding on to the ball, South Molton got their first points through a penalty. Almost on the half time whistle Alistair MacLennan shot up the blind side to score a 30 meter sprint. This made the score 19-3.

In the second half the Camels backs had the majority of the ball due to domination in the line outs of Dan Lumb and Julian Wilce winning 100% of their ball and stealing much of theirs. The home sides 55 stone front 3 were beginning to breakdown their opponents which allowed the back line to blast away on every opportunity.

South Molton never gave up. In the second half they had the Camels stuck in their half and on two occasions were about to score, only to drop the ball both times. Camels soaked up the pressure and with a little kick up the back-side began to play rugby in the oppositions half. With this territorial advantage they were able to call two separate set play moves which were both successful. One seeing the wild haired Andy Cameron score in the corner, and the other being a typical open side try and good support play from Kev Derry after a run from MacLennan. Camels finished the day with one more try by Sean Hawkey (the one with hair!) which he converted taking the final score to 38-3.

Wilce stated that “We want this pitch to become a fortress and for it to have a reputation of being difficult to score tries let alone win here. The coaches set this to the players this week in training and on Saturday and the lads have done it.”

“I do like the coach's way of thinking. He is never satisfied with the team until he sees perfection, so that certainly gives us something to work on!”

Coach John May says that there are still areas to work on , such as taking our chances more and all 15 having a visual awareness and read the game. He had no doubt in his mind of awarding scrum half Shaun Hawkey (the bald one) with the man of the match award for the way he played.

Wilce says, “What I really like about the Camels is that the three substitutes that came on all made a great impact. Kev likes the physical confrontation, Rich Treleaven is a tidy, solid player and Olly Hawkey is the quickest player over 50m. And the best thing about it is that the development side have many others that can start for the 1 st team. It makes training more interesting.

We want to play quality rugby and give the local community something to watch and get behind.