
Helston RFC maintained their impressive recent form with a hard-fought 12-24 bonus-point victory over Launceston IIs on Saturday, cementing their credentials as serious promotion contenders.
Following consecutive wins against Perranporth and league rivals Camborne IIs, the men in blue made the journey up the A30 to Polson Bridge with confidence high and ambitions clear. With the league standings tighter than ever, Helston knew the importance of making a statement.
The opening 40 minutes saw Helston absorb sustained pressure, their defence holding firm as Launceston dominated possession without finding a breakthrough. The visitors struck first through a well-constructed try from a scrum, with Ben Roskilly, Amori Matanatabu and Tomas Townsend combining brilliantly before Townsend crossed the whitewash and added the conversion.
Launceston responded with two tries of their own to take the lead, before Heydon Dark's score ensured the sides went in level at 12-12 at the interval. A focused half-time team talk from coaches and players addressed the basic errors that had kept the hosts in contention.
Helston emerged with renewed purpose after the break. Despite Olly Hallett's apparent corner try being ruled held up by the referee, skipper Jack Jenkin soon powered over with Townsend again converting to restore the lead.
The visitors were briefly reduced to 14 men when fly-half Ben Roskilly received a yellow card following a series of penalties in the 22’. However, Helston's resolve remained unshaken, and experienced back-rower Jamie Hoskin sealed the bonus-point victory with the final try of the afternoon.
The win keeps Helston firmly in the promotion race as they return to Clodgey Lane next Saturday to host Newquay Hornets. With momentum building and confidence soaring, the men in blue will be looking to continue their winning run in front of their home supporters.
Final Score: Launceston IIs 12-24 Helston RFC