Newquay were looking to avenge their controversial 19-18 defeat inflicted in the season opener. However Bath had other ideas, bringing to Cornwall a highly physical and experienced squad. The best team NHC have faced to date.
In only their 5th competitive game, Newquay once again showed they are a rapidly developing team. The hours spent on the training field, the passion, and the determination all shone through as they battled admirably against the reigning champions.
Bath were quick to take a 4-1 lead, but the first half was a close affair as Newquay star David Santos fired shots in from 9 metres plus, and Jürgen Koenen weaved his way through Bath’s rear guard. Ben Haddrel and Lee Springett also threatened from the wings. At the back, Tristan Mullar-Forster was a force to be reckoned with, as always commanding the Newquay back line.
Unavailable in the first encounter, Newquay were able to field Romanian Handball rockstar, Adolf Botar. Although only half fit, he helped Newquay into the half time break only three goals down; 15-12 and all to play for.
Bath made some changes for the second half, calling on some of the big guns from their ample bench. With the new personnel and talented centre players, Bath took advantage of Newquay’s waining focus in the early part of the second period. At these times the goalkeeper is crucial, and NHC’s Geoff Muskett stepped up and kept them in the game, keeping Bath’s lead down to 10.
A timeout, and pep talk from the coach, and Newquay were back in the game. Unable to claw back into a winning position, but with a standout performance and goals galore from Circle player Kevin Welsh, Newquay kept in touch.
The dying moments saw a goal worthy of the spectacle.With 5 seconds remaining, a pinpoint long pass from Muskett found Percy-Hughes approaching the goal at break-neck speed. Percy-Hughes caught and dispatched a finish with the expertise of a player from any of the top teams in the country.
Overall an excellent performance from Cornwall’s first Handball team, a day to be proud of and another step in the development of this young club.
Bodmin Satellite Club
NHC, as the flagship team in the county, are pleased to announce a new satellite club for players age 14-25. Training runs from 5 – 6.30pm on Thursdays at Bodmin College. Sessions are run by Newquay’s head coach, who has turned a group of complete beginners into a team capable of challenging the best. With a little dedication, this is what can be achieved in a short period of time. Good times aplenty.
If you are interested in joining Newquay’s senior training or the satellite club, visit newquayhandballclub.co.uk for information or email geoffmuskett@googlemail.com.
