FOLLOWING the huge success of the inaugural Coronation Cup match last May, there was much anticipation at Bitton Park for the second edition. Not even the steady drizzle which arrived an hour or so before kick-off could spoil the carnival atmosphere at the old ground. Live music, a hog roast and barbecue, warm-up matches involving the women’s squad, tag rugby and walking rugby all helped to entertain a huge crowd in the lead-up to the big match.

Last year’s fixture saw Dawlish carry off the trophy, and the Teignmouth lads were certainly keen to hit back. Both sides included a mixture of current TRFC First XV, Second XV, Colts and former players, and it was a joy to see the likes of Colin Aldworth, Arron Kelly and Rob Parsons back on the Bitton Park pitch. The inclusion of former junior Frankie Dart, who has recently signed a professional contract with National League 1 side Plymouth Albion, was a major sign of intent. More about young Mr Dart later …

If anyone thought that this would be an exhibition match with lots of free-flowing rugby and minimal physical contact, they were quickly disabused of that notion as the two sides went hell-for-leather.

Scrum time
Scrum time (Photo taken by Jess Phillips)

Eventually, things settled down, and although the Black Swans had plenty of possession in the first quarter, Teignmouth looked dangerous when they got hold of the ball and in the 17th minute. They took the lead when young winger Will Burton touched down in Clubhouse Corner and Dart calmly slotted the conversion.

This setback stung the Dawlish side into action- within 10 minutes they were back in the game when Rob Parsons appeared out of a maul to put his side on the scoreboard. However, Teignmouth finished the half the stronger, Jason Jervis scoring near the posts accompanied by the accurate kicking from Dart.

At that point, it looked like the home side might be set for a comfortable victory, but Dawlish weren’t ready to loosen their grip on the trophy. The holders had the best of the second half and it was their own Dan Aldworth who struck first blood after the break.

Rio Cooper kicked Dawlish back into the lead from a penalty, but there was to be one more twist in the tale. Teignmouth pushed for a winning score and they earned the chance to kick for goal themselves. Dart showed no nerves whatsoever with his 35-metre kick to snatch the Coronation Cup from the visitors’ hands, by a 17-15 scoreline.

This was proper rugby, a perfect tribute to Teignmouth RFC’s 150th anniversary. Huge thanks must go to Jamie Gray, Dan Force and their team for organising the whole day, and to the TRFC Committee and employees who made the day run so smoothly. Roll on Coronation Cup III!