Although the score was not dissimilar to that of the home game against the same opponents only four weeks ago, the performance was of an altogether different calibre, and was competitive throughout.

We scored three outstanding tries, and came very close to another two, but once again, when under pressure, could not contain the pace and power of the profusion of Polynesians.

I thought our teamwork was every bit their equal, and courage in the face of adversity frequently inspirational, but at the key moments the speed and physical presence of the home team's attacks were difficult to resist.

What Penzance have achieved is impressive, and there is no doubt, in my view, that they are destined for promotion.

Given that our squad departed at lunchtime on Friday and returned on Sunday evening - the longest journey in the English leagues - I do not think that we shall mourn their passing.

Those who bravely stood in front of maurauding warriors from the South Sea islands will not miss their running either. They are a different club from Kendal, destined for a different future, a future derived not just from disproportionate income, but from careful use of their resources to produce a team that will be difficult to beat, especially in their forbidding lair in the furthest recesses of Cornwall, only ten miles from Land's End.

Interestingly, the large crowds of enthusiastic

supporters - nearly two 2,000 watched the game - are

apparently unconcerned at the shortage of Cornish, or even English, or even Northern Hemisphere, representatives in their side.

They eagerly embraced the latest recruit, the Chilean international fly-half, whose accomplished performance was warmly applauded and appreciated.

Of our own display, there was much to delight the spectator, and to inspire the future.

The finishing XV contained eight players aged 21 and under, though those 30 and over - particularly Keith Robinson, rejoicing in new- found liberty in the back row - exerted their influence also.

Martin Armstrong had an outstanding game in attack, much his most accomplished so far in a Kendal jersey; Luke Ladell had an impressive debut, his attacking flair immediately evident, even against the Zimbabwean captain.

Stephen Healey scored an inspiring try and combined with Ladell to create another. Their timing on Saturday was immaculate. Sadly, the same could not be said the following day, when, in the company of four others, they both missed the train home!

January 10, 2003 10:31