Bolingey Barbarians v Falmouth Legends
Sunday 26th March 2023
Bolingey Barbarians were honoured to be invited to Falmouth RFC on Sunday, March 26th, 2023. Joining the celebrations of 150 years of continuous rugby in Falmouth since 1873.
A large crowd gathered in anticipation of what promised to be a great display of veteran rugby played in pleasant spring sunshine. At the Recreation Ground, Dracaena Avenue.
The game was billed as the Falmouth Legends v Bolingey Barbarians Invitational, supported by the Falmouth Marine Band Cornwall. As the drums fired up the band were led out by Truro RFC’s Brian Chenoweth, Graham Hill, and Milly Edwards. This honoured another Cornish rugby tradition as they carried a giant pasty to be hung over the crossbar.
They say reminiscing ain’t what it used to be! But this reporter was transported back in time, witnessing the same trio at Twickenham on 20th April 1991. Dodging the stewards to hoist the oggy before Cornwall won a remarkable County Championship final against Yorkshire. More than 40,000 Cornish people travelled to Twickenham to watch the game.
Meanwhile, back in Falmouth. They marched the length of the pitch to repeat the ceremony, the Marine Band resplendent in Cornish Kilts in fine fettle. The players then lined up alongside the band in the centre of the pitch to pay their respects to a former band member.
Thanks to referee Kevin Williams who did a splendid job officiating. Veteran rugby has an ebb and flow that needs a steady hand on the tiller. With both sides having large squads eager to participate in this anniversary match.
As befitting of the occasion, the game had a festival atmosphere, the players all contributing to the challenge. This gave the supporters plenty of reason to cheer on their friends.
It was Falmouth who had the upper hand as the game ended. Their strong running backs outpacing a tired defence to score some fine solo tries before Williams’s final whistle heralded a result to give the hosts a victory gladly accepted by Steve Instance. ‘Only on pay day’ was his cryptic message as the ‘third half’ beckoned!
The post-match party lived up to expectations, a big thank you to the catering and bar staff who put in a great shift to keep everyone fed and watered. Bolingey Barbarians love a good sing along and joined in as Will Keating and John Dowling took the stage, leading the singing and providing musical accompaniment to many a favourite Cornish anthem.
Bolingey presented Falmouth’s, chairman, John Bullock, an anniversary plaque which was handmade by wood carver, Roger Gluyas of Probus.
The Bolingey Barbarian’s charitable endeavours were supported by hosts, Falmouth RFC. Many players from this club are also Barbarians. Together with a raffle, auction, ground collection and the generous donations of many kind individuals of the rugby family. A total of £2,666.10 was raised on the day.
Bolingey Barbarian’s Chairman Roger Mead gave an address of thanks to all friends and supporters on behalf of the charities we hope to help now and in the future.
The latest recipients being Penhaligons Friends, supporting bereaved children. The Dreadnought Centre, working with children and young people across Cornwall. St. Piran’s ABC Boxing Club, helping young people through the sport’s discipline. Royal Cornwall Hospital, providing equipment for the children’s garden.
