Wadebridge Camels 15 Liskeard-Looe 3

LISKEARD-Looe can take little comfort from this encounter with a youthful Wadebridge team. After only two minutes Wadebridge took the lead when Liskeard-Looe gave away a needless penalty in an easy position full back Andrew Hicks had no problem taking advantage of the opportunity. Playing against a stiff wind the Lions contained reasonably well, the forwards making strong drives into Wadebridge territory, but poor ball retention and some unwarranted indiscipline permitted the home team to clear its lines with some clever kicks, making full use of the wind. Somewhat against the run of play Wadebridge increased their lead. Liskeard-Looe had fought their way deep into the Wadebridge half, but the ball came loose. Wadebridge were quick to take possession and with Liskeard-Looe totally committed to attack broke away for fly half Phillips to touch down a soft try. Liskeard-Looe's response was to take the game to Wadebridge, but again poor handling and discipline meant that the counter attack was always on the cards. Wadebridge are blessed with some impressive young backs and good cover by them and quick counter attacking moves forced Liskeard-Looe back on numerous occasions. Just before half time Wadebridge increased this lead when Andy Hicks finished off a good move for a try which he then converted. At the start of the second half, Liskeard-Looe finally got some reward for their efforts when Marcus Hill kicked a penalty. Sadly this was to be their only return. There was a strange lack of team spirit and understanding and all too often the ball carrier was isolated and had to surrender possession. They were also guilty of poor handling and taking wrong options. Wadebridge defended well and due to poor tackling spent long periods in the Liskeard-Looe half. Liskeard-Looe prevented Wadebridge scoring any further points and some good touch kicking from Marcus Hill and Jamie Robins regained some of the advantage. During the final 15 minutes Liskeard-Looe were on the attack, but a combination of good Wadebridge defence, the odd pass going astray and poor communication prevented them from narrowing the deficit. This was a very much below par performance by Liskeard-Looe, who for some reason seem to compete better against the top teams in the league than those marginally below them. Wadebridge were the better side on the day and deserved their win. They were quicker and slicker in all phases except set pieces, where the Liskeard-Looe pack showed well. Liskeard-Looe entertain London Cornish at Lux Park tomorrow. The visitors are bringing two sides down and the first game will kick off at 12.30pm. London Cornish have had a good season and the prospect is for a couple of entertaining games.