This second Boxing Day fixture between the boys of Liskeard/Looe U16s junior rugby team and their 'betters' once again saw a crushing defeat inflicted on the day by their daddies and a few others.

Due to a dearth of able bodied fathers, two colts - Lester Hannah and Ross Gailer - were drafted in to slow the game down. Unfortunately Lester injured himself inside five minutes, and he is wished well for a speedy recovery. Ross Gailer wasn't much use (in his father's opinion) but Phil Stansfield however, played adequately and may retain his place next year.

The Olderberries front row of Steve Rowe, Mike Strand and Robin Daniel had no problems whatsoever and the thrust, supplied by Toni Twornicki and Andy Davy continuously embarrassed their younger, larger, fitter and stronger counterparts. Not to be outdone, Dave Hudson enjoyed squashing Dave Hannah and all action Rob Collins kept himself remarkably clean, a credit to is gentlemanly tackling.

Andy Taylor, a cricketer, had a marvelllous game at fly half and achieved more than his son Stuart has all season. He willingly passed the ball. His centres, the quite useful Phil Stansfield and yet another debutante, Tony Elliot, were stunned to receive such a class service in the slightly damp conditions. Nevertheless, wingers Phil Gillbard and Tony Blank, despite the tacky conditions, ran with tremendous speed for several yards before being assaulted by young 'hooligans' with nothing better to do than upset these gentle, elderberry chaps.

Ross Gailer at full back conceded three of the softest tries imaginable and may struggle for selection next year.

Constant pressure from the Olderberries brought tries from dynamic Dave Hudson, tireless Tony Elliot, average Phil Stansfield, I suppose Sale RFC will want him back now!, and someone else who was equally brilliant. The conversion kickers were useless and now redundant.

Meanwhile, the boys were brilliant and playing their best, even some rugby. But it wasn't good enough and if Dave Hudson hadn't slipped and Phil Gillbard not taken pity on son Tommy they would not have scored. Luckily, referee Mike Williams was on hand to grant some consolation scores and ease some very old consciences. M O M was the the OB's scrum half for ferociously tackling big bad Ben Daniel. And they all went to the bar and lived happily ever after, all knowing they had done their best to get Stuart Patten.

The U16s hope to return to winning ways this Sunday home to Penzance, 11am kick off. Spectators welcome. . . . . report by Roger Gailer (tongue in cheek)