Liskeard/Looe was the venue on Sunday for the County Under-9s festival. All the big guns from the west of the County came to compete for the Cornwall Cup. Three groups were formed out of the 12 teams that entered the competition, with the Liskeard/Looe supersquad drawn with Camborne and Falmouth, two of the strongest teams in the competition. Only the winners of the group would go through to the next round.

Liskeard's first match was against Camborne, a side who fancied their chances to win the competition. As the match progressed it was obvious that a hard contest faced Liskeard who, from the outset, took the game to their opponents.

Some tremendous rugby was in store as the Liskeard youngsters ran their legs off - a lot of skill, speed and some tremendous tackling came from both sides. Some serious tackling showed the total commitment to the game in hand, with honours even at 20 points apiece come the final whistle.

Liskeard/Looe's second match was much of the same, with Falmouth as their opponents. Liskeard had to win to go through to the semis as Falmouth and Camborne had drawn their game. This was very much like the first match for Liskeard, but with fewer points available. However, Liskeard's speed saw them through, scoring the only try of the match after a tremendous move down the wing left Falmouth for dead. A second try looked on the cards for Liskeard but it wasn't to be. Liskeard had achieved their aim, moving into the semis.

Liskeard, Launceston, St Austell and Redruth, the favourites for the Festival, were the remaining four teams as the competition moved into the semi-finals. As so often happens the two strongest squads were drawn against each other, with Launceston facing St Austell. This went to St Austell after extra time.

By now both Liskeard and Redruth were fired up for what was to be a tough encounter. The teams had never met before and Redruth had not conceded any points in the group matches.

By now, the supporters were wound up for what was to be the best match of the day. Liskeard were the first to score, which took Redruth by surprise, but the try wasn't against the run of play. However, they were level soon after and, at half-time, honours were even.

The game continued to flow in the second half, full of skilful play. It's hard to think that they were nine-year-olds. Redruth scored a second against the run of play and, although the pressure from Liskeard increased, they were unable to get the much-needed try to draw.

In the last minute, a timely tackle on the line kept Redruth in front. The game finished 10 points to five.

Redruth went on to win the final comfortably, while both the Redruth and Liskeard coaches agreed it was unfortunate to meet in the semi-finals rather than the final.

Cornwall's rugby is in safe hands - this was a credit to all the coaches who freely gave their time to coach our youngsters to such a high standard. The skill and dedication was there for all to see on Sunday.

Also, thanks to all involved at Liskeard/Looe Rugby Club for the hard work put in to make the day possible. This was a well-run festival with no complaints.

There is no rest for the Liskeard/Looe supersquad, with another festival taking place next week at St Austell. Many of the teams competing at Liskeard will be looking for success at St Austell, Liskeard included.

Well done Liskeard/Looe under-9's, you did us proud.