West Country Wills Match Preview Round 3 Camborne vs Taunton Titans

In front of a good crowd, boosted by the splendid involvement of many members of the junior section and their families, Taunton Titans recorded their first league victory of the new season in a derby fixture against Hornets. For much of the game the result was not a foregone conclusion so it is to Taunton’s credit that they pocketed a bonus point win which will be a lift as they head into deepest Cornwall to play Camborne this Saturday.

Camborne, known as both the ‘Cherry and Whites’ and the ‘Town’, is a club steeped in tradition. In the heart of mining country, the club was established in 1878 and their local derby with very near neighbours Redruth is the rugby world’s longest running annual fixture. Both sides, of course, are in National League Two West. Camborne finished in sixth place last season and have begun the current campaign with two straight victories. On the opening weekend they triumphed 52-25 over Macclesfield at home and then made the five-and-a-half mile trip to Redruth for that historic derby, beating their hosts 35-43 – though they were made to work hard, having let slip a 7-43half-time lead.

Camborne’s Head Coach is Steve Larkins and the team is captained from the back of the scrum by Jordan Rose. Larkins strengthened his squad over the summer, picking up some shrewd signings from across the county and the region. Their ground, Crane Park, holds up to 7,000 and has hosted many touring international teams such as the Springboks, the All Blacks and the Wobblies.

Taunton Warriors, meanwhile, face their third consecutive away game at the start of the season. This time they go to Cleve in Mangotsfield, Bristol, boosted by last weekend’s victory by 17-39 against Gordon League, also in Bristol. It is a tremendous start to the season for the John Wrelton and Brett Harvey-coached second XV in their new division, having been champions last season.

Kick-off is at 3pm. Cost of entry for the game is £10 for adults.

How to find the ground:

The post code for Crane Park (also known as the Recreation Ground) on Cranberry Road in Camborne is TR14 7PW. Parking is available at the club (first come, first served).

Taunton resident and rugby lover, Richard Kitzinger writes content for Taunton RFC’s club website and match-day programmes. His day job is writing Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney - he can be found at www.westcountrywills.co.uk or reached on 07504 991893.

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