Bolingey Barbarians v St Austell
Sunday 18th January 2026
The clash between Bolingey Barbarians and St Austell veterans took place under bright winter skies, drawing a lively crowd to the touchlines. Thanks to CRFU referee, Dave Saunter, whose stewardship allowed both sides to showcase their enduring rugby skills with a genuine enjoyment for the game.
St Austell kicked off towards the Atlantic Sea, the low sun at their backs. The Barbarians chasing shadows which let St Austell’s number eight, man mountain, Huge Newt gather the loose ball and jump clear like free Willy, his supporting runner fumbled the pass and let the floundering Barbarians off the hook.
The Barbarians, known for their free-flowing style, managed to string together some impressive phases early on, testing the St Austell defence with clever offloads and robust carries. St Austell, however, were no pushovers; their veteran players responded with solid tackles and well-timed turnovers.
The Barbarians led 25-0, before St Austell replied. Tries by: Tex, Matt Horton, Curtis Hill, Scott French and Liam Birch. St Austell got on the scoresheet before half time. Ross Newt and Craig Taylor, giving the visitors a foothold to build on at the interval, 25-10.
The Barbarians head coach, David Moyle, was visibly animated on returning to the dugout after the half-time huddle. A small stone in his boot masking the satisfaction of his team’s performance.
At the restart, Bolingey and Roseland’s, Nathan Chapman, gathered the ball with an athletic catch and fed new cap, Callum Looker, for his debut try, 30-10.
St Austell fought back, Ross Trent going over to make it, 30-15.
Bolingey scored three more without reply, after some entertaining mid-field skirmishes, James Probyn and new cap, Russ Millsom, crossing the line. Followed by winger, Tug Wilson, who pulled off a long-range gallop for his try, 45-15.
St Austell’s Neil Smith went in under the posts with a strong break, 45-20. Bolingey had the final score of this fourteen try, veteran bonanza, with Curtis Hill’s second, 50-20.
The players and supporters enjoyed the lively post-match atmosphere at Perranporth RFC. Unfortunately, the traditional trip to the Bolingey Inn for the third half was not possible, the pub is closed at this time.
The Brewers Clubhouse rose to the challenge, thanks to Lisa and the hard-working bar staff at Perranporth. Pasties were provided and much appreciated. The cheese board and port, magically appearing from the burgeoning blazers of the Barbarian faithful.
Chairman, Steve Instance, gave an address, thanking St Austell and Perranporth for making a memorable day, enjoying the camaraderie that veteran rugby is all about.
President, Roger Mead, read the ‘parish notes’, providing an update of recent charitable projects. After a raffle and generous donations, Treasurer, Lee Taylor, reported a remarkable, £658.00 was raised on the day. Thank you for the continued support of the rugby family for the less fortunate children in Cornwall.
