Last week started well for the boys with Sam Walker slotting 2 penalties to put us in the lead and constant pressure on the Old Reds line. With 3 disallowed try-scoring opportunities, the scores remained tight at the break. Unfortunately, Old Reds exploded out of the blocks in the 2nd half scoring a quick-fire double to sink Exeter. EURFC had opportunities later on but could not quite overhaul the lead succumbing to an unlucky defeat.

With plenty of positives in that game, Exe will now look ahead to tomorrow’s clash against 4th-place Redruth.

Tomorrow’s Opponents
Last season was one that will be looked back on as a ‘nearly’ season for Redruth, as they pushed Esher right to the wire in National 2 South, only to be pipped to promotion at the death.

Founded in 1875, it was the first club to be formed in West Cornwall. They are one of the most successful club sides in Cornwall, having won the Cornwall Cup 10 times and the Cornwall Super Cup 3 times, and are currently the second highest ranked club side behind the Cornish
Pirates.

After a third-place finish in the Covid cancelled 2019-20 season, and a second-place finish last season, a title win will certainly be the target this time.

Team News
Only one change was made in the front 5 for Exeter with Chiefs academy player Harry Hocking replacing the injured Ellis Baldry at hooker. There is an all-new back row as Josh Thorne and Ben Grubb return from injury, partnering Ronan Kelly who impressed off the bench last week.

There are only 2 changes in the backs with Chris Ballard being called up into the starting 9 shirt for this week. The only other change that sees last week’s substitute Harvey Graham come in at fullback for Jonny Searle.

On the bench, there could be Saturday XV debuts for hooker Boniface Nehatta and scrum half Will Smears