Sat 9 Apr 2022
Tight games invariably boil down to key moments and which team is able to execute, when they get the chance(s) or see those moments out and which team doesn't execute or cannot hold out and today that was the story.
Playing into a fairly stiff breeze, that picked up just before kick-off. the CABs knew before the game the game they were in for a tough afternoon. This was due to the Drybrook's recent form and also every game that the two sides had played out before. Within 20 minutes the CABs were 17-0 down, via a very powerful Drybrook lineout maul and some soft tackling, rather than aggressive stop the player in their track tackling. The kicking game was not an option and so it meant that that CABs had to roll up their sleeves, get hold (& keep hold) of the ball. This needed some direct carries and also better support, at the breakdown, to prevent Drybrook from stealing/ripping the ball in contact. The CABs successfully achieved this and the next period belonged to CABs, however only 1 scrum penalty try was to show for it. Most importantly, they had shown Drybrook that the afternoon was not going to be one way traffic; with the scrum being particularly effective.
Second half and the CABs started where they left off and the score now became 17-10 Then, the came the crucial moment. Instead of playing territory off a kick re-start (& forcing Dryrbook to run out from deep) the CABs tried playing out and eventually conceded a penalty which was banged into corner and another catch & drive score ensued to stretch their lead to 22-10. A try from Adam Collings & another penalty from Dan Pearce pulled the game to four points going into last 8 minutes. Unfortunately, a few loose kicks by CABs allied to a yellow card for Ryan Westren, gave Drybrook priceless possession and they managed to hold on.
Overall, it was another super competitive game between these two sides and it will be genuinely disappointing that Drybrook will be moved across to the Midlands league as both clubs are similar hubs for the community, super facilities and very, very fair and appreciative supporters.
Next Saturday, sees the CABs travel to Redruth for their Cornwall Cup Final. The game will be a 17:00 kick-off and the players hope as many supporters can make it down, as they'll need everyone to help overcome high-flying St Austell and former CABs favourite Matt Shepherd.
