REDRUTH 7pts EXETER 24 pts - Old rivals for many years, Exeter came to the Recreation Ground for a pre-season fixture, designed to help both clubs for coming League fixtures.

As most would have expected Exeter won, by a 4-1 try count, being in control for 70 per cent of the match.

Reds kicked off towards the town, in front of 700-or-so spectators. Conditions were good for running rugby.

After an Exeter prop was yellow carded, Reds with a good passage of play took the lead in the 15th minute through Mark Harper, and fly-half James Trezise, a new signing, converted,

Within five minutes, Exeter were on terms, with a try by centre Jason Luff, which Stuart Alred converted.

Both teams had chances to score. For the Reds, three-quarter Lewis Vinnicombe playing at centre, with Mark Richards, Richard Carrol at lock, with Andrew Skinner, looked good, as did the backrow trio of John Navin, Julian Hosking and James Maa, a new recruit.

With the half time break close, Exeter got a second try, for a deserved lead: back row player Alan Miller powered his way over, for Alred to add the extras.

RFU referee Nick Williams kept play moving.

Six minutes into the second half, Exeter scored a try in the Piggy Lane corner - a forward charge set up the score, credited to Garry Willis. The conversion failed.

Full report in this week's issue.