The visitors opened in fine fashion and soon took the lead after a try from Charlie Taylor. Liskeard gradually picked up the pace and gained just reward for their continued pressure when Andy Harris scored a try which was converted by full-back Tim Weale.
Following a series of sustained pressure early in the second half, Marcus Hill ran in a good try which he managed to convert himself. Old Techs struck back with a try by Andy Paice which Mark Slade converted. Techs continued to apply the pressure and they fully deserved the further try which Mark Slade touched down, giving them a three point lead. Liskeard/Looe really began to show determination at this stage, something which has been missing from the side for some months. Some good forward play took them up the field and the ball was put out wide, allowing Jeremy Usher to run in a splendid try. The game ended with the home side still putting pressure on their opponents.
This was, in effect, a practise match with both sides using replacements and various combinations of players. Even so, it was a genuine game of rugby which both both teams contested to the full. It was good to see Tim Pound back in action after a lengthy lay-off due to injury. There were some good performances from several of lazy season's squad with Wayne Kelly playing well at various times at wing, flanks and in the centre. Dave England, Paul Mason, Carl Bannerman and Mark Thomas also looked fit and eager for the new season, as did Kevin Coburn, also making his return to the side after a nasty arm and wrist injury sustained last season. Several new faces made good impressions; Tim Weale at full-back was full of running as were wingers Julian Kittow and Jeremy Usher. Mark Swales at centre ran and tackled well and hooker Andy Harwood covered a lot of ground to good effect. Various combinations were used in the back row, where skipper Kevin Lorenz joined forces at various times with Campbell Bowls, a New Zealander now working locally. Wayne Kelly, Mark Thomas and Dave England also performed well, forming an effective second row with John Pounder and Adrian Hore.
The Liskeard/Looe squad showed ability, courage and a determination to win which bodes well for them this season. They played some entertaining rugby which will be great to watch as the season progresses.
The side have a number of fixtures coming up in the next few weeks. On Saturday 18th September, they visit Callington in the Tennants Bitter Cup, and then the following Saturday, 25th September, they visit Redruth Albany in a league match. On Saturday 2nd October they play host to Camborne School of Mines and then on Saturday 9th, they entertain Callington, both of which are league games. Saturday 23rd October then sees them paying a visit to Veor in the league.
Anybody interested in playing should be at the Sports Club at 7pm every Tuesday evening for training. Colts training takes place on Thursdays at 7pm at Sports Club and, once again, new players are most welcome. For those who are too old and infirm to play, the club will be delighted to see you on the touch-line for any game, just turn up and enjoy the atmosphere.